Report: Liverpool Plot £143m Move for Crystal Palace Pair Eze and Guehi

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Anfield Index

·6 October 2024

Report: Liverpool Plot £143m Move for Crystal Palace Pair Eze and Guehi

Liverpool’s Next Move: A Potential Double Raid on Crystal Palace?

Liverpool under Arne Slot have exceeded expectations this season, silencing any doubts following Jurgen Klopp’s departure. Slot, known for his tactical acumen and eye for talent, has won eight of his nine matches in charge, with Federico Chiesa being his only major addition thus far. However, as the January transfer window approaches, reports suggest the Dutchman has his sights set on further improving his squad – and Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze could be the man to fill the gap.

With the Reds looking strong, Slot’s desire for more firepower in midfield points to a belief that Dominik Szoboszlai, the Hungarian playmaker signed by Klopp, isn’t delivering the numbers Liverpool need in the final third.

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Eze in Slot’s Sights

Eze has been identified as a potential upgrade for Szoboszlai, whose future at Anfield is reportedly under scrutiny. According to TeamTalk, Slot feels the Hungarian is not producing enough goals or assists given his attacking role. The creative midfielder has contributed just one goal so far this season, a figure that doesn’t match his underlying talent.

Slot addressed this issue publicly after Szoboszlai’s recent goal in the 3-1 win against AC Milan, saying:

“He’s been important for us, especially until now in our work when we don’t have the ball. He’s been outstanding in his pressing game. I think something that we have to work on with him is that he’s also even more involved in scoring goals and creating chances for us.”

Though Slot acknowledged Szoboszlai’s defensive contributions, he hinted that the player’s offensive output needs to improve. With only two goals from midfield across all competitions, it’s clear that Slot is pushing for more attacking productivity from his central players.

Eze, on the other hand, could offer the creative spark Liverpool are missing. The 26-year-old is one of the Premier League’s most skilful and versatile players, consistently contributing to Palace’s attacking output. With his £68m release clause set to activate in 2025, Liverpool could face competition from Tottenham, but it’s believed that the Reds are giving serious consideration to making a move next year.

Marc Guehi Also on Liverpool’s Radar

The potential raid on Crystal Palace doesn’t stop with Eze. Marc Guehi, the 23-year-old centre-back, is also reportedly on Liverpool’s radar. Newcastle made a significant £75m bid for Guehi over the summer, but the defender stayed at Selhurst Park. However, with Liverpool now interested, the England international might be tempted by a move to Merseyside.

Photo: IMAGO

Guehi has risen to prominence as one of the Premier League’s most reliable young defenders, and Slot is said to be keen on adding him to his backline. Liverpool’s defensive frailties, often exposed in high-stakes games, could be solidified by the arrival of a talent like Guehi.

As TeamTalk reports, Liverpool could end up paying a combined total of £143m to secure both Eze and Guehi. It’s a steep price, but if Slot feels this is what’s needed to take Liverpool back to the top of English football, it’s an investment the Reds may be willing to make.

Szoboszlai’s Future Under Threat?

Szoboszlai’s situation at Liverpool is becoming increasingly uncertain. Despite Slot’s public support, the Hungarian was left out of the starting XI for Liverpool’s trip to Selhurst Park, with Curtis Jones preferred in his place. Slot justified this decision by saying:

“Dom is putting so so so much effort in his pressing. You wonder can he continue doing it every three days. It’s also good for us to have more than three midfielders.”

Szoboszlai’s pressing and defensive work rate may have earned him praise, but in a Liverpool side expected to challenge for titles, the pressure to contribute offensively is immense. If he doesn’t find a way to increase his goal and assist tally soon, Slot’s search for an upgrade in Eze may spell the end for Szoboszlai at Anfield.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Excited Liverpool fans will undoubtedly see the potential signings of Eze and Guehi as moves that could take the club to the next level. Eze’s creative talents, coupled with his ability to play between the lines, offer a direct solution to Liverpool’s current midfield struggles. His addition would bring both flair and goals to a team that is still transitioning under Slot’s leadership.

However, there will be concern among Szoboszlai supporters who believe the Hungarian deserves more time to adapt. At just 23, Szoboszlai is still young and has plenty of room to grow, and while his numbers haven’t been as prolific as expected, his work off the ball is vital to Slot’s pressing game. It’s not uncommon for creative midfielders to take time to find their feet in a demanding league like the Premier League.

On the other hand, the possible arrival of Guehi could finally shore up Liverpool’s defensive issues, with expectant fans hoping that the England international can form a solid partnership with Virgil van Dijk. At just 23, Guehi still has a high ceiling and could become a long-term option at the heart of Liverpool’s defence.

With a potential £143m outlay, these signings would represent a significant financial commitment, but for a Liverpool side eyeing silverware, the investment could pay dividends. Whether Szoboszlai steps up or not, Slot’s Liverpool will be expected to challenge for trophies, and fans will be eager to see how this situation unfolds.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index: Eberechi Eze’s Performance Data

Eberechi Eze has been one of the standout performers for Crystal Palace in the Premier League over the past year, as demonstrated by his impressive statistical profile. The data, sourced from FBref, highlights Eze’s well-rounded contributions across attacking, possession, and defending metrics.

Attacking Contributions Shine

Eze’s attacking output is undoubtedly the highlight of his game, with his non-penalty expected goals (npxG) sitting in the 90th percentile. This demonstrates his ability to consistently generate high-quality goal-scoring opportunities without relying on penalties. His non-penalty goals (89th percentile) are equally impressive, showing a strong conversion rate. Additionally, his xAG (expected assisted goals) ranks in the 85th percentile, reflecting his creative potential in providing chances for teammates.

Possession Metrics Reflect Playmaking Ability

Eze also excels in possession, ranking highly for progressive passes received (75th percentile) and successful take-ons (71st percentile), making him a vital cog in Crystal Palace’s transition from defence to attack. His ability to carry the ball forward (66th percentile in progressive carries) further underlines his value as a dynamic playmaker. However, his pass completion percentage (58th percentile) suggests there’s room for improvement in terms of accuracy in possession.

Defensive Work Remains a Weakness

While Eze’s attacking and possession numbers are impressive, his defensive contributions are more modest. His ability to tackle dribblers ranks in the 65th percentile, which is decent, but his other defensive metrics like clearances (23rd percentile) and blocks (7th percentile) show that he is not heavily involved in defensive actions.

In summary, Eze’s statistical profile indicates he is an exceptional attacking and possession player but has room for improvement defensively.