Liverpool’s summer transfer window under Arne Slot has been nothing short of eventful, full of noise, speculation, and big-money moves that have already sent shockwaves through the Premier League. Four high-profile players have already walked through the doors at Anfield — Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and Hugo Ekitike — each signing adding more firepower, depth, and versatility to the squad. The message from Liverpool’s new Dutch boss is clear: this is not a season to settle for last year’s achievements, it is a season to dominate again, both domestically and in Europe.
However, as much as the fans are buzzing about the attacking options and midfield creativity now available to Slot, there remains one glaring issue that could still define Liverpool’s campaign: the lack of depth in central defence. Right now, the Reds have only three recognised senior centre-backs — Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez. And while that trio contains talent, leadership, and experience, it also carries risk. Gomez is currently recovering from a minor injury, and Konate’s history of fitness problems over recent seasons is well documented. The reality is that Liverpool cannot go into a long, grueling season fighting on four fronts without reinforcing this position.
Slot has been diplomatic, suggesting that in an emergency Ryan Gravenberch, Wataru Endo, or even Andy Robertson could fill in at the back. But deep down, he knows those are stopgap measures, not long-term solutions. To compete with Manchester City, Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich at the very top level, Liverpool need another natural centre-back — someone reliable, commanding, and ready to slot in seamlessly whenever called upon.
This is where the scouting department has been working quietly behind the scenes, drawing up a shortlist of potential targets. Three names stand out, each with different qualities, price tags, and levels of experience — Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, Pietro Comuzzo of Fiorentina, and Nathan Collins of Brentford.
The first name, Marc Guehi, is already a familiar one to Liverpool fans and Premier League watchers alike. The England international has been on the radar of top clubs for some time, and with only a year left on his Crystal Palace contract, this summer could be the perfect time to strike. Guehi is a leader — captain of Palace and a player who rarely hides when the going gets tough. Last season, he won almost 60 percent of his duels, averaged more than four clearances per match, and made over four recoveries per game. His tackling numbers are strong too, with close to two successful tackles each outing. Importantly, he already knows the pace and physical demands of English football inside out.
Liverpool have reportedly been willing to offer around £40 million for Guehi, but Palace are holding out for closer to £50 million. It’s a game of patience and negotiation, but one where Liverpool can’t afford to wait too long. With Konate’s future beyond 2026 uncertain, Guehi could become Van Dijk’s long-term partner, gradually stepping into the leadership role as the Dutchman nears the latter years of his career. The problem is, Palace will only let him go if they can sign a quality replacement in time — meaning Liverpool need to move quickly before the London club closes the door.
The second name, Pietro Comuzzo, offers a different kind of appeal. At just 20 years old, the Fiorentina defender represents youth, raw potential, and the possibility of shaping a player into a Liverpool-style centre-back over the coming years. Comuzzo’s breakthrough season in Serie A saw him play 33 games, with 24 starts, and his numbers were impressive. He won 60 percent of his duels, had an 86 percent passing accuracy — slightly higher than Guehi’s — and showed excellent awareness in both defensive recoveries and clearances.
Fiorentina are realistic about his value. They rejected a £26 million-plus-bonuses bid from Napoli earlier this year but are open to selling for around £34 million this summer. The competition will be tough, with Manchester United and Nottingham Forest also interested, but Liverpool’s Champions League status and clear pathway to first-team football could swing things in their favour. Comuzzo might not walk straight into the starting XI every week, but under Van Dijk’s guidance and Slot’s tactical approach, he could develop rapidly into one of Europe’s most complete defenders.
Then there’s Nathan Collins of Brentford, the Republic of Ireland international who has steadily built his reputation in the Premier League. Tall, strong, and dominant in the air, Collins won more than three aerial duels per game last season while also proving solid with his recoveries and clearances. His passing accuracy of 86 percent is another plus, though it’s worth noting that Liverpool’s possession-heavy style would naturally boost that number even higher.
Collins was ever-present for Brentford last season, showing durability and consistency — traits that Liverpool badly need in a backup centre-back. With Brentford already selling key players like Mark Flekken and Bryan Mbeumo, and Yoane Wissa expected to leave soon, the Bees might cash in if Liverpool meet their £40–45 million valuation. For Collins, the prospect of stepping into a title-challenging side and playing Champions League football would be hard to resist.
The decision now for Liverpool is a strategic one. Do they go for the proven Premier League experience of Guehi or Collins, or invest in the long-term promise of Comuzzo? Do they spend big on an almost-guaranteed starter, or aim for a player who can rotate in and develop without the pressure of immediate first-choice duties? And crucially, can they move quickly enough to secure their chosen target before the transfer window slams shut?
One thing is certain: the need is urgent. Van Dijk, for all his greatness, is not the same untouchable force he was in his peak years. Konate cannot be relied upon to play 50-plus games without injury. Gomez, while versatile, has had his own battles with fitness. If Liverpool go into the season without another top-class centre-back, they risk a repeat of the defensive injury crisis that derailed their 2020–21 campaign. That year, despite having one of the most dangerous attacks in Europe, they stumbled badly in the league because of instability at the back. Slot will not want to make the same mistake.
The truth is, Liverpool’s entire tactical setup under Slot depends on defensive stability. His pressing game, high defensive line, and quick transitions all require centre-backs who are both physically dominant and tactically intelligent. Even the most minor lapse in concentration or positional discipline could cost dearly — especially in matches against rivals like City and Arsenal, where fine margins decide outcomes. That is why this signing could be the most important of the summer.
Right now, fans are excited about the prospect of Alexander Isak arriving to add firepower up front. But in reality, the player who could make or break Liverpool’s season might be one of these three defenders. Whether it’s Guehi marshalling the backline with Premier League experience, Comuzzo learning fast under elite guidance, or Collins bringing aerial dominance and resilience, Liverpool cannot afford to let this opportunity pass them by.
And so, as the clock ticks towards the end of the transfer window, the pressure is on the Liverpool hierarchy. The blueprint for success is there — a dynamic attack, a creative midfield, and leadership in the dressing room. But without that extra piece of defensive security, the puzzle will remain incomplete. For Slot, for the players, and for the fans, this decision could define whether Liverpool’s season ends with silverware or frustration.
