Liverpool’s Pursuit of Guehi: Near Miss This Summer but Eyes on the Future
Liverpool enjoyed a largely successful summer transfer window, bolstering their squad with several key additions. Yet one target slipped through their fingers: Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi. The Reds reportedly offered €40 million for the 25-year-old defender, whose Estimated Transfer Value stands at €42.5 million. Despite negotiations being close to completion, Palace ultimately pulled out, leaving Liverpool to regroup.
Speaking to the media, manager Arne Slot acknowledged the near-miss without hiding the truth. “It would be ridiculous to deny we were close—it was out in the open,” he said. “These things happen in football. It’s happened to our players before, and it can happen again.”
Guehi, who will become a free agent next summer, remains a top Liverpool target. Known for his composure, athleticism, and leadership, he has impressed both at club level and with England, making him one of the Premier League’s most coveted young defenders.
Slot emphasized Liverpool’s ongoing interest: “We would like to sign him, of course. If we feel we can strengthen, then we will try to.” He also praised the club’s current defensive core, highlighting outstanding performances from Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez, and noting the depth added by young talent Giovanni Leoni and versatile players like Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch.
“It’s a pity for the player, but he is at a good club,” Slot added, acknowledging Guehi’s current situation while hinting at Liverpool’s determination to revisit the transfer. With his contract expiring next summer, the Reds could secure him without a transfer fee, though Slot remained coy about timing: “Let’s see what the future brings. January or summer? I don’t tell you, but I am thinking of Burnley.”
The prospect of landing Guehi, either now or as a free agent, underscores Liverpool’s ambition to strengthen their defensive options for both Premier League and European challenges. Competing clubs are also monitoring elite young defenders, raising the stakes for the Reds.
Slot’s comments signal intent: Liverpool are ready to bolster a backline already led by world-class talent, ensuring depth, versatility, and resilience. As the January window approaches, all eyes will be on Anfield to see if the pursuit of Guehi finally comes to fruition.
