Liverpool talks for Marc Guehi deal expected IMMINENTLY

Liverpool are looking at bringing a new centre-back into the squad this season, as Jarell Quansah looks to be heading elsewhere this summer. We're witnessing a change of the guard in defence.

The young England international has struggled to deliver to the standards expected of him and so a period of further development is required before he can attempt to break back into the Reds' side.

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A buy-back clause is said to have been embedded in Quansah's move to Leverkusen, which is still awaiting full confirmation, and so in a couple of years, Liverpool could return him to Merseyside.

But for the time being, a replacement is required and the club has reportedly honed in on their target.

Liverpool in prime position for Guehi

According to The Mirror, a deal for Crystal Palace's captain Marc Guehi has stepped up a gear.

Their latest report claims: "Liverpool's summer spending spree looks set to continue as they close in on a move for Marc Guehi.

"The Crystal Palace defender has been linked with several top clubs after is became clear he was not going to extend his contract at Selhurst Park, which only has a year left to run. But Liverpool are now in prime position and that talks between all parties will take place in the next 24 hours.

"There are still hurdles to get over. Crystal Palace value their England centre-half in the region of £70m but are realistic enough to know suitors will not go up that mark as Guehi only has 12 months of his contract to run. But, they will still hold out for a fee in excess of £40m..."

Anywhere within the £50m margin would represent a phenomenal piece of business, if Quansah is to be sold for £30m plus £5 in add-ons. A mere £15m would be spent to upgrade him.

Guehi is also an England international and would be classified as a homegrown asset, so Liverpool would not lose out in that respect, and a seriously talented defender would join the club's ranks.

Of course, playing as the third choice centre-back would not be ideal, but he genuinely has the capability of dislodging Ibrahima Konate as Virgil Van Dijk's main partner in defence. Unlike at other clubs, the opportunity is there to grasp if he wants - he is that talented.

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As such, we could easily see an escalation on this deal in the coming days once negotiations start.

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