Liverpool reportedly have other centre-backs on their radar despite being heavily linked with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi. The Reds have an established partnership between Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate in the centre of their defence, but a recent sequence of events has forced Anfield bosses to spring into action.

Arne Slot needs a talented group of defenders ready to deploy at all times, even if they are unable to displace Konate or Van Dijk from the manager’s strongest XI. And with Jarell Quansah heading to Bayer Leverkusen in a £35million deal, Liverpool are suddenly in need of a replacement.

Konate’s contract saga has added extra urgency to the situation. The Frenchman has only one year left to run on his current deal, and he is believed to be disappointed by Liverpool’s latest offer, which raises the possibility of him leaving for free in 12 months’ time. Real Madrid, who have just landed Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer, are reportedly keen.

The Athletic claim that Guehi is ‘rated’ by Liverpool, but they are only expected to push ahead with a move for the England international if Palace quote them a reasonable fee.

Guehi is out of contract next summer, when he would be at liberty to join a club of his choosing if he does not move on during the current window, which is why interested sides are determined not to be held to ransom.

If Liverpool are forced to wait for Guehi, they may still wade into the current market for a centre-back squad option. And the report adds that two other defenders are on their radar as club bosses favour ‘a youngster with the potential to grow’.

Nottingham Forest star Murillo is ‘well-liked’ on Merseyside. The 22-year-old has completed two seasons as a Premier League regular with the Tricky Trees, but there are concerns about what would likely be a massive price tag.

Another player in the mix is Jorrel Hato. Liverpool are among a number of top clubs to be linked with the Ajax 19-year-old, who can play at left-back or in central defence.

And they could ‘enter the conversation’ if a battle for his signature develops before the window shuts. Hato does not turn 20 until next March but he has played well over 100 senior games in the Eredivisie and become a fully-fledged Netherlands international.