Liverpool have reportedly decided against spending £70m on one of their top defensive targets this summer.

The Reds are yet to make a single summer signing since new head coach Arne Slot succeeded Jurgen Klopp last month.

It is understood that Liverpool are keen to bolster their options in defence following the departure of Joel Matip upon the expiration of his contract in June.

The potential exits of fringe players including Nat Phillips, Sepp van den Berg and Rhys Williams could also leave Liverpool light in the centre-back department.

Captain Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah are all set to battle for minutes at Anfield next season, although the former's long-term future is thought to be uncertain amid interest from Saudi Arabia.

Liverpool have subsequently been linked with a host of defenders this summer including Juventus teenager Dean Huijsen, with Football Insider claiming that the Reds are keen on a summer deal for the 6ft 5in Spain Under-21 international.

However, the 19-year-old is considered as one for the future by Liverpool, who are eager to recruit a first-choice left-sided defender.

Liverpool refuse to pay Guehi asking price?

One name high on their list of targets has been Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, with a recent report stating that the Reds were 'super confident' of striking a deal with the Eagles to sign the 23-year-old England international.

However, it is now claimed by Football Insider that a move for Guehi is likely to prove too expensive for Liverpool, who are not prepared to meet Palace's £70m asking price.

Palace are demanding as much as £70m for Guehi as his former club Chelsea are understood to have a 20% sell-on clause.

Guehi has elevated his game to new heights over the last 12 months and Liverpool are not the only top European club that have been credited with an interest as the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Real Madrid are all believed to have been closely monitoring his development.

Speaking at the end of the 2023-24 campaign about Guehi's future at Selhurst Park, Palace manager Oliver Glasner said: "Nothing is 100% but he's under contract. He is a good player, he's our captain, so I'm very positive and confident that he plays for Crystal Palace."

Guehi, who was a standout performer for Euro 2024 finalists England earlier this summer, has made 111 appearances for Palace across all competitions over the last three seasons and has two years remaining on his contract. body check tags ::