Real Madrid have reportedly pulled out of the race for one of their transfer targets, effectively clearing the way for Liverpool to sign him and giving the Reds a significant edge in yet another transfer contest.
In recent years, Liverpool and Real Madrid have frequently gone head-to-head for top talent, with the Spanish giants usually emerging victorious. Several of Madrid’s current key players — such as Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, Endrick, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Dean Huijsen — were all linked with Liverpool before choosing Los Blancos.
Their competition could continue into 2026. Liverpool are working to renew Ibrahima Konaté’s deal, while Real Madrid had been eyeing him as a potential free-agent opportunity. But one defender who will not be making the switch to Madrid is Marc Guehi.
According to AS, Real Madrid have dropped their interest in the Crystal Palace defender, officially due to wage concerns, as they are unwilling to meet his demands. However, the underlying belief is that Guehi already prefers a move to Liverpool, with Bayern Munich being the only other serious rival for his signature.
Bayern will be able to open talks with Guehi from January 1, when he enters the final six months of his contract, but Liverpool are still thought to be leading the chase. The Reds could even try to secure a deal in the January window, especially after Giovanni Leoni’s injury.
With Real Madrid stepping aside, Liverpool now appear to be in a strong position to land Guehi — and all indications suggest they intend to take full advantage.
