Liverpool stepping up plans to move for Chelsea star in surprise swoop: Reports
Liverpool are seemingly preparing to sign Chelsea defender Malo Gusto. The news comes on the back of the fact that the Reds may lose Trent Alexander-Arnold in the summer once his contract at Anfield expires.
Former Manchester United scout Mick Brown has shared an update on the situation. Speaking to Football Insider about this, he said (via Tribal Football):
"Liverpool are making plans for if they lose Trent Alexander-Arnold. They have to have these conversations about where to go to find a replacement."
"They have Conor Bradley, who has done exceptionally well when called upon, and he will be an important part of their plans."
Conor Bradley has often stepped up in Alexander-Arnold's absence. This season alone, he's made 12 appearances across competitions, bagging an assist. While Bradley has proven reliable, Arne Slot may be looking to strengthen this department.
Brown added about the links to Gusto:
"But Gusto is very highly rated, and he is someone like their scout who has kept an eye on this season. He's not a given starter at Chelsea either, as when Reece James returns from injury there's a good chance he'll end up on the sidelines."
"So that gives Liverpool the chance to offer him regular game time, and they will think that could be enough to tempt him to move."
Gusto is behind Reece James as far as the starting position at right-back is concerned. An opportunity to become the first choice at Anfield may be enough to tempt the Frenchman to join the Reds.
However, a transfer for the 21-year-old won't be cheap, with Gusto contracted at Stamford Bridge till the summer of 2030.
Liverpool to beat Chelsea in the race for Premier League defender - Reports
Liverpool are reportedly ahead of Chelsea in the race for Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi's signature. According to Sunday Mirror, the Eagles are beginning to come to terms with the fact that they may be losing the England international in 2025 (via The Echo).
He's only contracted at Selhurst Park till the summer of 2026. This means that Crystal Palace will be looking to move Guehi on in 2025 and not lose him for free the year after.
The Reds were linked with the defender even last summer but failed to get a deal over the line amid competition from Newcastle United. To date, Guehi has made 130 appearances across competitions for his current side, bagging seven goals and three assists.