Liverpool Target Marc Guehi as Defensive Reinforcement
Liverpool are moving swiftly in the transfer market as the Premier League champions seek to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the 2025/26 season. With the transfer window closing on 1 September, attention has turned firmly towards Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, who has been linked with a £35m move to Anfield.
Paul Joyce reported on Tuesday that Liverpool have entered formal discussions with Crystal Palace regarding the 25-year-old, while journalist Lewis Steele added that Richard Hughes is now “advancing” negotiations for a deal worth £30m upfront, with an additional £5m in potential add-ons.
Alongside Guehi, Liverpool are also exploring options in Italy, targeting Parma defender Giovanni Leoni as manager Arne Slot looks to bolster a backline currently light on numbers. Following Jarell Quansah’s £35m departure to Bayer Leverkusen and Joe Gomez’s ongoing achilles injury, Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate remain the only fully fit senior centre-backs.
Lewis Steele Highlights Guehi’s Ambition
Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate have formed a commanding partnership for Liverpool, but according to Lewis Steele, Guehi would not be content to take a backseat if he joined the Reds.
Steele posted on X: “One thought on Marc Guehi if he does sign for Liverpool: he is not coming to be the third-choice CB. From what I hear about his mentality, and see with his ability, he will believe he can challenge to be in that best XI. Given the ‘England international tax’, £35m is a steal.”
One thought on Marc Guehi if he does sign for Liverpool: he is not coming to be the third-choice CB. From what I hear about his mentality, and see with his ability, he will believe he can challenge to be in that best XI. Given the 'England international tax', £35m is a steal. 🏴
— Lewis Steele (@LewisSteele_) August 13, 2025
Guehi’s self-assured approach could make him a key figure in Slot’s squad, bringing healthy competition to Liverpool’s defensive line.
Securing Liverpool’s Future
Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi demonstrates their commitment to long-term squad strength. Steele’s insight into the player’s mentality, combined with statistical evidence, suggests that the England international could not only fill the immediate defensive gap but also compete for a leading role.
Negotiations led by Richard Hughes signal that Liverpool are determined to secure a player capable of thriving under the pressures of a title-winning team. If successful, Guehi’s arrival could be considered a strategic and financially sound acquisition for the Premier League champions.
