Interest in Guehi Signals Defensive Planning

While the headline focus this summer has been Liverpool’s record pursuit of Alexander Isak, it’s clear the recruitment team at Anfield has more than just attack on their mind. According to The Mirror, Liverpool remain firmly interested in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi — and with good reason.

Guehi has emerged as a consistent performer in the Premier League and England setup, making his leadership role at Selhurst Park all the more impressive given his age. The 25-year-old’s mix of composure, aerial ability and clean ball progression makes him an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s new system at Liverpool.

Crystal Palace Demand £40m

One sticking point in this potential deal? The price. Crystal Palace are asking for £40 million, despite Guehi entering the final year of his contract. It’s a fee Liverpool consider too steep, especially given the possibility of signing him for free next summer.

However, context matters. With Ibrahima Konaté’s contract expiring in 2026 — and with reports of Real Madrid circling — Liverpool may be looking to future-proof their backline sooner rather than later.

Timing May Be Key

With Guehi currently preparing for another season as Palace’s skipper, the situation may ultimately depend on external pressure — be it Real Madrid’s pursuit of Konaté or Palace softening their stance.

The player himself hasn’t pushed for a move, but Liverpool’s admiration isn’t going unnoticed.

Guehi’s Profile Aligns with Slot’s Vision

For a manager like Arne Slot — who demands defenders comfortable in 1v1 scenarios and adept at building from the back — Guehi offers precisely the blend of attributes needed to complement Virgil van Dijk or Konate if he stays. His England experience only sweetens the deal, adding tactical maturity to his already impressive résumé.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, the Guehi link is both smart and strategic. With Konaté potentially heading to Madrid, there’s a clear need to reinforce the heart of defence — not just for the upcoming season, but for years to come.

Guehi brings Premier League experience, leadership qualities, and international pedigree. At 25, he’s young enough to grow and experienced enough to slot in immediately. The £40m fee might feel inflated given his contract situation, but Liverpool have spent more on less — and with Guehi, you get a player capable of becoming a defensive mainstay for the next five to seven years.

Many fans will recall how Virgil van Dijk’s arrival transformed Liverpool’s backline. While Guehi isn’t at that level yet, he has the tools to become elite under the right guidance. With Arne Slot’s tactical identity, adding a player like Guehi signals ambition and future-proofing.

Should Real Madrid come knocking for Konaté, it would be frustrating to lose such a talent — but Guehi could be an immediate remedy. Fans may well see this as smart business rather than reactive scrambling, especially with Manchester City and Arsenal already strengthening their own defences.