“Since Guehi terms are too much for the board we will have to go for his perfect alternative in the La Liga” – This is according to Arne Slot as Liverpool prepare to swoop in for “magnificent” £17m-rated centre-back in the Spanish League

Liverpool’s calculated transfer strategy may keep them out of the usual transfer deadline chaos this August—something many clubs might envy.
Rather than rushing into late deals, the Reds have already handled their business early. After comfortably securing the Premier League title last season, Liverpool have made strategic signings ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, where they’ll aim to defend their crown and push further in other competitions where they previously fell short.

Yes, missing out on the Carabao Cup hurt, but lifting the league trophy certainly made it easier to swallow. Still, a spring slump revealed the need for reinforcements—an issue new sporting director Richard Hughes has moved quickly to address, especially in defence.

Why Liverpool are targeting a new defender

Earlier in June, Liverpool accepted a £30 million deal (with add-ons) from Bayer Leverkusen for Jarell Quansah, including a buyback clause. While the move won’t be official until Quansah wraps up international duties with England U21s, it means one less defensive option for Arne Slot heading into the new season.

With Ibrahima Konate’s future uncertain—following the rejection of a new contract and just one year remaining on his current deal—Liverpool have turned their attention to Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi. The England international is expected to move on this summer, and Anfield has emerged as a serious contender.

But if a deal for Guehi fails to materialize, Liverpool will still need to bring in another centre-back.

Enter Cristhian Mosquera

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are monitoring Spanish defender Cristhian Mosquera of Valencia, a player also attracting interest from Arsenal. David Ornstein recently reported that the Gunners are in talks with Valencia and have agreed a €20 million (£17 million) fee.

Hughes has already moved quickly this summer but continues to scout opportunities. And with Mosquera turning 21 just recently and boasting 90 senior appearances, he represents a valuable long-term investment.

During the 2024/25 season, Mosquera was a regular starter for Valencia, missing only the trip to Camp Nou (a 7-1 loss) and highlighting his importance to the side. His presence might have changed that outcome, as he has shown composure under pressure that’s rare for his age.

How Mosquera compares to Guehi

Statistically, Mosquera matches up impressively against Guehi:

Despite being younger and less experienced at the top level, Mosquera’s ball-playing ability and reading of the game make him a compelling option for a side like Liverpool. He fits Slot’s system, which relies on centre-backs being involved in transitions and forward distribution.

A developing star with world-class potential

According to FBref, Mosquera ranked in the top 18% of La Liga centre-backs for progressive carries and in the top 7% for ball recoveries per 90. His agility and awareness allow him to cover ground quickly, break up plays, and restart attacks—traits that fit well in Liverpool’s high-intensity style.

While aerial dominance isn’t currently his strength, experts like Jacek Kulig have labelled him a “truly magnificent centre-back,” emphasizing his long-term upside.

Of course, Guehi is more polished, with Premier League experience to back it up. But considering Liverpool already have elite defenders in Virgil van Dijk and Konate (if he stays), investing in a raw but gifted talent like Mosquera—who can learn under these veterans—could be the smarter long-term move.