Liverpool Closing in on Major Defensive Signing with Marc Guehi
Liverpool’s summer transfer window has taken a dramatic turn as the club moves closer to securing Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. The England international has been one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers over the past two seasons, and his potential switch to Anfield could mark one of the biggest defensive coups of the summer. Despite a reported £10 million gap in valuations between the clubs, Liverpool appear determined to bridge it and finalize the deal before the transfer deadline.
The 25-year-old centre-back, whose contract at Selhurst Park has just one year remaining, has attracted interest from several top Premier League sides. Palace’s asking price of £45 million contrasts with Liverpool’s internal valuation of £35 million, factoring in both the contract situation and long-term strategic planning.
Negotiations have been intense. Palace have been reluctant to part with a player central to their defensive setup under manager Oliver Glasner. Guehi’s leadership and reliability were also highlighted during England’s Euro 2024 campaign, further raising his profile and convincing Liverpool of his value. The Reds view him not just as a squad reinforcement but as a long-term defensive cornerstone capable of eventually leading the backline.
Rumours of Guehi’s growing unrest intensified after Palace’s recent goalless draw with Chelsea. While Glasner dismissed claims of a disagreement and praised the defender’s commitment, speculation persisted that Guehi is ready for a new challenge. Former goalkeeper Ben Foster weighed in, suggesting on his podcast that a move to Anfield is likely, emphasizing Guehi’s determination to push through the transfer.
For Liverpool, the deal aligns perfectly with Arne Slot’s vision. While Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté remain the core pairing, injuries and fixture congestion make adding a defender like Guehi crucial. His Premier League experience, composure on the ball, and physical presence fit seamlessly with Slot’s tactical approach.
Crystal Palace are preparing for life without their defensive linchpin. Potential replacements include Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande and Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez. While both are promising talents, replicating Guehi’s leadership qualities will be a greater challenge. Chairman Steve Parish has acknowledged the tough choice between cashing in now or risking losing him for free next year.
Glasner continues to insist that Guehi and teammate Eberechi Eze remain committed, but behind the scenes, Palace may be softening their stance. Liverpool’s willingness to compromise on the fee, coupled with Guehi’s desire for a new chapter, could tip negotiations in their favour.
If completed, the transfer would not only bolster Liverpool’s defence but also send a psychological signal to the Premier League. Guehi’s arrival would reaffirm Liverpool’s ambition to challenge Manchester City and Arsenal while providing the defender with the chance to compete in the Champions League and fight for silverware during his prime years.
As the transfer window ticks down, the “Anfield Coup” is shaping up to be one of the most significant and talked-about deals of the summer — a potential statement of intent from Liverpool as they seek to reclaim their place at the top of English football.
