Liverpool Set to Break World Record for Defender with £100M Deal for Marc Guéhi
Liverpool are reportedly on the cusp of completing a historic £100 million deal for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi, setting a new world record for the most expensive defender in football history. The move has reportedly caught rivals Manchester United and Arsenal off guard.
The 24-year-old England international, who has been a top defensive target for both clubs, is expected to undergo a medical at Anfield on June 28, 2025. Personal terms have already been agreed on a five-year deal.
The transfer, orchestrated by Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, marks a bold move by Arne Slot as he looks to strengthen his squad for the upcoming Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
Guéhi, who wore the armband at Crystal Palace last season, impressed with 102 ball recoveries, 56 clearances, and an 88% pass completion rate. His calm presence at the back and standout performance during Euro 2024 earned him plaudits across Europe.
The agreed £100 million package, which includes performance-related add-ons, eclipses the £80 million Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire in 2019—setting a new benchmark. It also surpasses Liverpool’s own record purchase of Virgil van Dijk (£75m) and Manchester City’s £77 million signing of Josko Gvardiol.
Liverpool had initially tabled a £70 million bid that was rejected by Palace, who held firm due to Guéhi entering the final year of his contract and attracting serious competition.
United, who had considered Guéhi alongside new £52.1m signing Leny Yoro, were financially hamstrung after splashing out £110 million on Viktor Gyökeres. Arsenal, meanwhile, shifted focus to Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori (£40m), unable to match Liverpool’s offer.
Guéhi is said to have been convinced by the Reds’ promise of consistent first-team action alongside van Dijk and a central role under Slot. Concerns over potential rotation at United or Arsenal reportedly pushed him toward Anfield.
The news has left rival fans in disbelief. “Guéhi to Liverpool for £100m? We’ve been outplayed again!” wrote one dismayed United supporter. An Arsenal fan commented, “Arteta wanted him, but Liverpool just stole the show.”
Liverpool’s defensive urgency stems from Ibrahima Konaté’s uncertain contract situation—set to expire in 2026—and Andy Robertson’s ongoing recovery from a major ACL injury.
The club’s record-breaking spending, now at £287 million this summer, has been fueled by the £35 million sale of Jarell Quansah and revenue from a new Adidas sponsorship deal. Other signings include Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and Freddie Woodman.
Guéhi’s imminent arrival is a clear signal of intent—Liverpool aren’t just rebuilding; they’re aiming to dominate.
