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Scott Minto has suggested that Liverpool should steer clear of signing Antoine Semenyo in the January transfer window and instead focus their efforts on securing Marc Guehi.
Arne Slot has had a challenging start to his Premier League season, with Liverpool's defence proving to be a particular issue. The team has conceded 20 goals so far, with their previously solid defensive duo of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate appearing less formidable in the 2025/26 season for various reasons.
In addition, summer recruit Milos Kerkez has experienced some difficulties since his $54 million move from Bournemouth, while Jeremie Frimpong has been sidelined by a hamstring injury. Due to Frimpong's ongoing issues, the Reds have had to resort to using Dominik Szoboszlai as an emergency right-back.
The club has also struggled with creating and finishing opportunities this season, despite significant signings such as Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Alexander Isak.
While some might be quick to blame Slot's attacking line-up for their troubles this season, others have pointed out that the defence may need additional investment when the transfer window reopens. During a talkSPORT discussion this week, Sam Matterface asked Minto and Alex Crook why they would consider splashing out on Crystal Palace captain Guehi in January, given he will be available on a free transfer in the summer.
To which Minto replied: "Because questions are being asked now. Are they even going to finish in the top four? But lets see, he's not just a short-term fix, he's an £80 million footballer.
"He's an £80 million footballer that they could have got for £35 million but for things going on elsewhere, and if they had put down £40M, £45M they probably would have got him straight away. And yet what do we think the problems are with Liverpool right now?"
Crook then added: "I don't think Liverpool are in any kind of financial situation because they went for a couple of transfer windows didn't they? Didn't spend anything, and actually you look at their net spend which is what I was talking about... Their net spend in this summer transfer window was £218 million pound less than Arsenal so I think they have got the funds."
To which, Minto explained: "So I would I would bring in Marc Guehi rather than Antoine Semenyo," before Crook asked: "Because Van Dijk and Konate have been vulnerable?"
The former Chelsea and West Ham star then replied: "Absolutely."
Liverpool pursued Guehi's services this summer in a deal that appeared almost certain to materialise until the final moments.
Whilst Liverpool seemed poised to secure a deadline day acquisition of the England international for around $46 million, Palace ultimately prevented the transfer due to their inability to secure a suitable replacement in time. If Liverpool decides to abandon their pursuit of Semenyo and instead focuses on securing a deal for Guehi, it would be music to the ears of Manchester United supporters.
The Red Devils had also shown interest in the Ghanaian during the summer, before he ultimately decided to extend his stay with the Cherries until 2030.
However, recent reports suggest that Bournemouth might not be able to resist offers from interested clubs in January, as Semenyo's contract reportedly contains an $85 million release clause that any club can trigger. Despite adding Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko to their attacking ranks this summer, United could still be in the market for additional firepower as they aim to secure European football for the 2026/27 season.
Considering Semenyo's impressive tally of six goals in 11 games this season, United might choose to resume their pursuit of the 25-year-old when the January transfer window swings open.
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