Liverpool’s failure to sign one of their top summer targets could prove costly after it emerged that Barcelona are mounting a ‘huge charm offensive’ to get a deal over the line.
Liverpool Rocked as Barcelona Launch Late Move to Hijack January Transfer for Marc Guehi
Liverpool’s hopes of finally securing long-term defensive target Marc Guehi have taken a major blow, with reports claiming Barcelona have dramatically entered the race and launched a “huge charm offensive” to lure the Crystal Palace star to Spain.
The Reds spent £446 million in the summer window — a club record — bringing in names like Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Giovanni Leoni, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerke, and Alexander Isak. Despite the spending spree, Liverpool failed to land one player they had been chasing for months: Marc Guehi.
How the Transfer Collapsed
Liverpool were close to a deal worth £35 million plus a 10% sell-on clause, but Crystal Palace abruptly pulled the plug. Manager Oliver Glasner reportedly threatened to walk away if Guehi was sold, and with Palace unable to find a replacement — after target Igor Julio joined West Ham — the move collapsed.
Three months later, the saga has taken a surprising turn.
Barcelona Enter the Race
According to fresh reports, Barcelona have made two formal approaches to Guehi’s representatives in the last two weeks. Despite their financial restrictions, the Catalan giants see Guehi as a “shrewd, cost-effective addition” and are considering a January bid worth around £17 million.
Sporting director Deco even name-checked Guehi on SER Catalunya, calling him a “good player” and praising Barça’s new model of blending young talents with La Masia prospects.
Barcelona are reportedly tempting Guehi with:
- Champions League football
- A major role in the heart of defence
- A partnership with rising star Pau Cubarsí
- The promise of long-term sporting stability under Deco’s project
With Barça allowed to open pre-contract talks from January 1, Liverpool suddenly find themselves at risk of losing out again.
Why Crystal Palace Rejected Liverpool’s Offer
Palace chairman Steve Parish previously explained the club’s reasoning for blocking Liverpool’s summer move.
He revealed that Palace’s ambitions — especially their first-ever appearance in the UEFA Conference League — made keeping Guehi far more valuable than cashing in.
“It’s never black and white,” Parish told talkSPORT.
“We felt we’d have a better season if we kept Marc. If we were fighting between 10th and 14th, maybe we take the money — but this season was different.”
What This Means for Liverpool
Liverpool had planned to revisit their pursuit in January — but Barcelona’s sudden interest may force the club to rethink their defensive transfer strategy altogether.
The Reds believed Guehi was the ideal profile for Arne Slot’s rebuild.
Now, with Barcelona circling and Palace demanding a premium, Liverpool may need to move fast — or risk losing another top target to a European rival.
