Ornstein provides clear January and Guehi update

Liverpool await January update amid Guehi uncertainty

Injury setback and defensive shortage

Liverpool’s defensive options are stretched thinner than they have been in years. Giovanni Leoni’s debut ended in disaster, a torn ACL that will sideline the Italian teenager for up to a year. For Arne Slot, the setback has reduced his senior centre-back pool to just three fit players: Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez.

Photo: IMAGO

The injury arrived only weeks after the club decided to sell Jarell Quansah, a move now questioned by supporters who see a looming crisis in the heart of defence. Konate remains the first-choice partner for Van Dijk, while Gomez continues as reliable cover, but one more injury could tip Liverpool into a full-blown emergency.

Photo IMAGO

Slot’s preference for tactical flexibility, particularly the option of shifting to a back three, now seems impossible. The current shortage means Liverpool must persist with a back four until at least January.

Liverpool’s January options under review

The coming winter transfer window could offer some relief, but there are doubts about whether Liverpool will act. Sporting director Richard Hughes has been exploring potential additions, with one name dominating discussions: Marc Guehi.

Liverpool came close to securing the Crystal Palace captain over the summer, reportedly tabling an initial £35 million bid. The deal collapsed on deadline day after Palace failed to land a replacement, forcing the FA Cup holders to walk away. The frustration was palpable, as Liverpool had identified Guehi as both a short-term reinforcement and a long-term successor in defence.

Photo: IMAGO

Waiting game for Guehi

It had been speculated that Liverpool might return for Guehi in January, but according to David Ornstein, the situation appears more complex. Speaking to NBC Sports, he said: “They tried for Marc Guehi. It collapsed on deadline day and I think Liverpool would go back in for him in the summer of 2026. I’m not expecting him to leave Crystal Palace in January.”

Photo IMAGO

He continued: “Actually, I’m not expecting Liverpool to go for a centre back in January as things stand. Of course, these things could change, but I don’t think it’s a plan. Liverpool won’t have a clear run at Guehi, because there’s going to be competition perhaps from the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester City.”

Summer rebuild on the horizon

That leaves Liverpool facing the prospect of sticking with their current group until the summer. Konate’s contract situation and Gomez’s uncertain future could reshape the defensive landscape by 2026. Guehi remains admired, but patience might be required before any move materialises.

For now, Liverpool’s back line will have to hold firm through the winter, hoping that fitness and form can carry them through until reinforcements arrive.