In a seismic shift that’s set to rock the foundations of Anfield, Liverpool have dramatically abandoned their pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who now appears destined for a blockbuster move to Manchester City. With defensive reinforcements urgently needed amid contract uncertainties and injury woes, the Reds are pivoting to two elite European targets: Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni and Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck. But that’s not all—whispers from Spain suggest a mouthwatering $81 million (£61 million) raid on Real Madrid for midfield dynamo Eduardo Camavinga could be on the horizon. Liverpool.com breaks down the chaos unfolding in the January 2026 transfer window.
Guehi Dream Dead: Why Liverpool Pulled the Plug
Liverpool’s interest in Marc Guehi has been one of the saga’s of the season, but sources close to the club confirm that any January swoop is off the table. The England international, valued for his composure and aerial prowess, was seen as a perfect fit to bolster Arne Slot’s backline. However, with Manchester City circling and Guehi’s camp reportedly favoring a move to the Etihad, the Reds have wisely stepped back to avoid a bidding war.
This decision comes at a critical juncture. Liverpool’s recent stumble against Burnley—failing to beat a newly promoted side at Anfield for the third time this season—highlighted defensive frailties and a lack of attacking fluidity. While Florian Wirtz dazzled, the Reds struggled to pull away, underscoring the need for squad depth. But with Guehi out of the picture, attention turns to the summer of 2026, where Liverpool’s defensive crisis could erupt into full-blown panic.
Virgil van Dijk, the Dutch colossus, enters the final year of his contract in the summer, raising questions about his long-term future. Ibrahima Konate, meanwhile, is on track to depart as a free agent if no extension is agreed upon. Joe Gomez, a reliable utility man, has been plagued by setbacks, limiting his availability. Even promising youngster Giovanni Leoni, highly rated after his arrival, has been sidelined by a long-term injury sustained against Southampton in the League Cup—appearing just once this campaign.
Adding to the intrigue, Rennes’ 20-year-old defender Jeremy Jacquet—previously linked with Liverpool—is reportedly heading to Chelsea this month. This leaves the Reds scrambling for alternatives, and TeamTalk reports that Bastoni and Schlotterbeck are now firmly in the crosshairs.
Defensive Reinforcements: Bastoni and Schlotterbeck Emerge as Prime Targets
Liverpool’s transfer chiefs aren’t wasting time mourning the Guehi miss. Instead, they’re eyeing a double swoop on Serie A and the Bundesliga for two of Europe’s most coveted center-backs.
First up is Alessandro Bastoni, the 26-year-old Inter Milan star who’s been a linchpin in Simone Inzaghi’s title-chasing side. Bastoni’s left-footed elegance, pinpoint passing, and tactical intelligence make him an ideal successor to Van Dijk. With Inter potentially open to negotiations amid financial pressures, a summer move could be feasible. Liverpool see him as the progressive defender who can elevate their build-from-the-back style under Slot.
Joining him on the shortlist is Nico Schlotterbeck, the 26-year-old Borussia Dortmund powerhouse. Known for his physicality, aerial dominance, and recovery speed, Schlotterbeck has been a standout in the Bundesliga, helping Dortmund challenge for top honors. His ability to play out from defense aligns perfectly with Liverpool’s high-pressing philosophy. Dortmund’s history of selling stars—like Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland—suggests a deal could be struck, especially if Liverpool table a compelling offer.
These moves aren’t just about immediate fixes; they’re strategic plays for 2026 and beyond. With potential exits looming, center-back has vaulted to the top of Liverpool’s priority list. While January reinforcements seem unlikely, the summer window promises fireworks as the Reds aim to rebuild a defense that’s shown cracks this season.
The Midfield Masterstroke: $81M Bid for Eduardo Camavinga?
As if the defensive drama wasn’t enough, Spanish outlet Fichajes has ignited fresh speculation by linking Liverpool with Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga. The 23-year-old French sensation, valued at a staggering $81 million (£61 million), possesses the perfect blend of physicality and technical flair to thrive in the Premier League. His box-to-box energy, ball-winning tenacity, and vision could inject dynamism into a midfield that’s occasionally lacked bite this term.
Camavinga has endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, starting just five La Liga games amid intense competition. With Xabi Alonso’s departure (having moved on to new pastures), the midfielder’s role has been uncertain. However, under interim or potential new boss Alvaro Arbeloa—expected to be confirmed in the summer—things could shift. Yet, Fichajes claims Liverpool are monitoring the situation closely, ready to pounce if Camavinga seeks regular minutes.
While the youngster has never publicly expressed a desire to leave La Liga, a move to Anfield isn’t beyond the realm of possibility. His versatility—capable of playing as a No. 6, No. 8, or even left-back—would give Slot tactical flexibility. At just 23, Camavinga represents a long-term investment, potentially forming a dream partnership with the likes of Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Of course, prising him from Real Madrid won’t be easy. Los Blancos view him as a future cornerstone, but Liverpool’s financial muscle—bolstered by recent commercial deals—could make the $81M fee palatable. This link arrives at the predictable January juncture when Madrid stars are routinely touted for Premier League switches, but there’s enough smoke here to suggest fire.
This transfer earthquake at Anfield underscores a club in transition. Scrapping the Guehi plan is a pragmatic call, redirecting focus to Bastoni and Schlotterbeck—two “stunning” alternatives who could transform the backline. Throw in the tantalizing prospect of a colossal Camavinga deal, and Liverpool’s 2026 rebuild looks ambitious.
Yet, with the Reds toiling against promoted sides and defensive depth thin, January might still see opportunistic moves. For now, though, summer appears the likelier battleground. Arne Slot’s side needs reinforcements to chase silverware, and these targets could provide the spark. Stay tuned—Anfield’s foundations are shaking, and the aftershocks could redefine Liverpool’s era.