Liverpool Push for Marc Guehi as Transfer Window Reaches Breaking Point
Liverpool’s transfer window has been anything but quiet — and now, on the eve of their Premier League opener against Bournemouth, the tension is reaching boiling point. With Giovanni Leoni’s arrival from Parma close to completion, all eyes are turning to Marc Guehi. For Liverpool, this is more than just signing another defender. It’s a statement of intent.
The Need for Depth
Leoni’s signing solves part of the puzzle, but not the whole picture. Jarell Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen has left another gap in Arne Slot’s backline, while Ibrahima Konaté’s unresolved contract situation casts a shadow over the future. Depth at centre-back isn’t a luxury for Liverpool — it’s a necessity.
That’s where Guehi comes in. The England international has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders: composed under pressure, quick across the turf, and rock-solid in duels. Slot believes Guehi could step straight into Liverpool’s system with minimal adaptation.
The Sticking Point: Price
Crystal Palace want £45m–£50m. Liverpool see him closer to £35m–£40m. That £10m difference is the main hurdle. Palace’s leverage has weakened, though. A recent CAS ruling ended their hopes of European football next season, removing the financial incentive to keep Guehi at Selhurst Park. With his contract up next summer, Palace face the risk of losing him for nothing if they don’t sell now.
Guehi’s Perspective
For the player himself, the move is obvious. Liverpool offers Champions League football, a title challenge, and the chance to play under one of the most exciting new coaches in the league. His style — comfortable stepping out with the ball and disciplined defensively — makes him an ideal partner for Van Dijk or Konaté, while giving Slot vital flexibility.
Why Timing Is Everything
Liverpool know they need Guehi integrated fast. Injuries are already testing Slot’s squad, and with the Champions League group stage and domestic cups looming, depth will be crucial. Waiting too long risks costly disruption later in the season.
Behind the scenes, sporting director Richard Hughes is working to bridge the valuation gap. His strategy this summer has been swift and decisive, but Guehi’s situation is delicate. Liverpool are confident that Palace’s European exit, Guehi’s contract, and his desire to move will eventually tilt negotiations in their favour.
A Defining Move
Completing both Leoni and Guehi before the end of August would be a powerful show of ambition. It would silence doubts raised after Liverpool’s Community Shield defeat and prove that Slot has the full backing of the Anfield hierarchy.
For now, Guehi remains a Palace player — but the momentum is shifting. A deal could be wrapped up in days, and when it does, it won’t just reshape Liverpool’s defence. It could shape the entire title race.
