Liverpool’s Marc Guehi Pursuit Gains Momentum Amid Diomande Deal
Diomande Move Could Spark Guehi Exit
Liverpool’s long-standing interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi may be edging closer to fruition, thanks to a major development at Selhurst Park. According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, the south London club have struck a £47.2 million agreement with Sporting Lisbon for highly rated centre-back Ousmane Diomande. The 21-year-old, one of the most coveted young defenders in Europe, is said to be eager for the move to the Premier League.
With Diomande now on the brink of a transfer, the implications for Guehi are difficult to ignore. The England international has reportedly informed Palace that he won’t be extending his current contract, which is due to expire in 2026. That admission alone places pressure on the club to consider a sale now, while his value remains high.
Strategic Opportunity for Liverpool Recruitment
There’s even talk of Ben Doak, a player Palace previously targeted, being used as a makeweight in negotiations. But more significant is the idea that Crystal Palace might now be willing to cash in on Guehi, with Diomande’s arrival offering them a ready-made replacement. That would represent a significant strategic opportunity for Liverpool as they seek to reinforce a defensive line that will soon be without Jarell Quansah, whose move to Bayer Leverkusen is nearing completion.
Contract Countdown May Force Palace’s Hand
Guehi’s contract situation adds further intrigue to the saga. Though he remains under contract for another year, Palace risk losing him for nothing in 2026 if they fail to negotiate an extension or accept an offer this summer. With his market value strong and Premier League experience under his belt, the former Chelsea academy graduate could command a fee of around £45 million.
Liverpool, mindful of homegrown quotas and seeking a reliable defensive presence, may see that as a reasonable investment. Guehi brings calmness in possession, tactical intelligence and leadership qualities that belie his age — all attributes that would suit Arne Slot’s evolving tactical vision.
Liverpool’s Defensive Jigsaw Coming Together
What once seemed a complicated pursuit now appears far more attainable. If Diomande completes his switch to Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace could be more open to parting ways with Guehi, especially with his contractual future unresolved.
With multiple variables now aligning — a replacement incoming, a contract stand-off, and a clear signal of interest from Liverpool — this could be the moment where the dominoes finally start to fall. Guehi to Liverpool no longer feels speculative, but rather a deal waiting for the final push.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this report is likely to be met with cautious optimism. Guehi has been quietly excellent at Palace and offers exactly the kind of composure and Premier League-readiness that would complement Virgil van Dijk or Ibrahima Konaté. Given his age and homegrown status, the move ticks several strategic boxes.
The potential arrival of Diomande at Selhurst Park might well be the trigger fans were waiting for. It suggests that Palace are planning for life without Guehi, and that could simplify negotiations. Supporters may also view this as a smart window of opportunity. With Quansah departing the depth at centre-back needs urgent addressing.
There may be some questions over the £45 million price tag, but context matters. English players with top-flight experience command a premium, and Guehi’s performances for both Palace and England make him a safer bet than many continental alternatives.
Ultimately, if Liverpool can secure a defender with leadership, mobility and tactical discipline, this could prove a foundational move in Arne Slot’s first summer at Anfield.
