Liverpool Near Record-Breaking Deal for Marc Guéhi, Stunning Manchester United
Liverpool are reportedly on the verge of sealing a blockbuster £100 million transfer for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi, a move that has taken Premier League rivals—especially Manchester United—by surprise. The 24-year-old England international has agreed to a five-year deal and is set to undergo a medical at Anfield on June 28, 2025, according to insider sources.
The fee, which includes performance-based add-ons, would make Guéhi the most expensive defender in history—surpassing the £80 million Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire in 2019. This represents a major coup for the Reds, who have outmaneuvered United in the race to sign the highly-rated centre-back.
Guéhi, Crystal Palace’s captain, was a top defensive target for United, who had hoped to pair him with recent £62.5 million signing Matheus Cunha and were also negotiating for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. However, Liverpool, led by sporting director Richard Hughes, seized the opportunity—taking advantage of United’s financial strain after their £110 million deal for Viktor Gyökeres.
The move is strategic for Liverpool, who are facing defensive concerns with Ibrahima Konaté possibly leaving in 2026, Andy Robertson out with an ACL injury, and Jarell Quansah having been sold to Bayer Leverkusen for £35 million. Guéhi’s impressive stats last season—102 ball recoveries, 56 clearances, and 88% pass completion—plus his leadership for England at Euro 2024, make him a perfect fit for Arne Slot’s possession-heavy tactics.
The deal was made possible by Liverpool’s increased financial muscle, thanks to the Quansah sale and a lucrative new Adidas partnership. In contrast, United were hampered by Profit and Sustainability Rule restrictions and a £10 million penalty from Adidas for missing out on Champions League qualification.
Social media reactions have been heated. Frustrated United fans lament being outmaneuvered yet again, with one tweeting, “Liverpool snatching Guéhi for £100m? We’ve been outdone again!” Meanwhile, Liverpool fans are jubilant, with posts like, “Guéhi and van Dijk? That’s an unbreakable defense!”
Guéhi’s signing is part of Liverpool’s £287 million summer overhaul, which also includes Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, and Freddie Woodman. The transfer showcases the Reds’ intent to reassert dominance both domestically and in Europe.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s internal disarray is becoming more apparent, as they pursue Eberechi Eze—reportedly against manager Ruben Amorim’s preferences. In contrast, Liverpool’s swift and calculated move for Guéhi underscores their strategic clarity and ambition. An official announcement is expected soon, leaving United to regroup in the wake of a major missed opportunity.
