Liverpool may be on the verge of making another statement signing, as discussions intensify over a move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. Despite already spending close to £290m this summer on the likes of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, the Reds remain active in the transfer market following the departures of Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez, Ben Doak and Jarell Quansah.
According to multiple reports, Liverpool officials are set to hold fresh talks with Palace this week, with Guehi firmly at the top of their defensive shortlist. The England international, who is entering the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, has made it clear that Anfield is his preferred destination.
Competition Fades as Guehi Chooses Liverpool
Both Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have tried to lure Guehi away from Palace, tabling approaches in recent weeks. But despite the attraction of Champions League football with Newcastle or Spurs’ ambitious project, Guehi has reportedly turned down their advances.
Instead, the 25-year-old is waiting on Liverpool, believing they can provide him both immediate opportunities and a long-term role as Virgil van Dijk edges towards the latter stages of his career. Former England boss Gareth Southgate has described Guehi as an “exceptional” defender, and Liverpool see him as a natural fit to strengthen their backline under Arne Slot.
Palace’s Dilemma: Sell or Risk Losing for Free
Crystal Palace face a crucial decision. Guehi has shown no signs of renewing his contract, which expires in 2026, leaving the club with the choice of cashing in now or risking losing a valuable asset for free in two years.
Reports suggest Liverpool are prepared to offer around £35m, though Palace are believed to be holding out for closer to £45m. Chairman Steve Parish will ultimately decide whether it’s better to take the money this summer or keep their captain for at least another season.
Meanwhile, Palace are reportedly tracking Rennes defender Jérémy Jacquet as a potential replacement, which could ease the blow of losing Guehi.
Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy
Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by Richard Hughes, is expected to continue pushing for the deal in the coming days. The Reds’ interest in Guehi comes alongside ongoing monitoring of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, though the Swede’s situation remains complicated.
For now, Guehi remains the realistic defensive target. If Liverpool can find a breakthrough in negotiations before the 1 September deadline, they could secure one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders and further bolster a squad already reshaped by record spending.
What Happens Next
Liverpool’s Offer: Will they increase their bid closer to Palace’s £45m valuation?
Palace’s Decision: Cash in now or risk losing their captain on a free in the future?
Guehi’s Patience: The player has made his preference clear — now it’s up to the clubs.
With less than two weeks left in the window, this saga looks set to dominate headlines until the deadline day. For Liverpool, landing Guehi could be the final defensive piece in their ambitious rebuild.
