Liverpool avoided a major transfer misstep by missing out on Marc Guehi last season, according to Yahoo reporting. While Manchester City eventually secured the centre-back, his recent performance drops and defensive mistakes contrast sharply with the strong form of alternative signing Jeremy Jacquet.
Over the last couple of years, the Reds have poured well over £600 million into their squad following a fifth-place finish and an aging title-winning roster, as reported by Yahoo. Missing out on Marc Guehi initially left the backline short, but hindsight suggests it was a blessing in disguise.
Marc Guehi Struggles After Manchester City Transfer
Last season, Guehi looked bound for Anfield as his contract with Crystal Palace neared its expiration. Yahoo notes that an agreement was reached at the end of the summer transfer window, but Crystal Palace pulled out because they could not find a replacement in time. Liverpool tried to secure him again in January before Manchester City ultimately brought him into their ranks.
He initially appeared to be an exceptional addition. His performance levels have dropped drastically with the 26-year-old even being at the centre of a few mistakes, especially in City’s recent 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa,
according to Yahoo.
Jeremy Jacquet Steps Up as Defensive Alternative
Failing to land Guehi prompted Liverpool to bring in Jeremy Jacquet as an alternative. Virgil van Dijk continues to hold his own at 35 years old, despite occasional errors leading to goals. The club’s primary long-term question centers on the Dutchman’s contract expiring at the end of the current season.
It is unclear whether Iraola and Julian Ward will offer Van Dijk a new deal. Yahoo reports that if Jacquet maintains his current trajectory of progression, he could easily become Liverpool’s best defender in the future
and fill the void left by Van Dijk’s eventual exit.
