Deadline Day Drama as Liverpool Close in on Marc Guehi
Credit goes to Charlie Parker-Turner [@CParkerTurner] for breaking a key update in what has been a frantic final day of the transfer window. His exclusive revealed: “EXC: DEAL OFF! With Crystal Palace working on defensive signings and minutes therefore not guaranteed, Igor has decided against joining Oliver Glasner’s side. Instead, he is now in talks to join West Ham on a season-long loan. Deadline day drama.”
This twist could have direct implications for Liverpool as their £35m move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi edges closer to completion.
https://twitter.com/cparkerturner/status/1962536328513441994?s=46&t=D8_OcO_tnuLFyWmN0D7RpQ
Guehi Deal Nears Final Stages
Liverpool and Palace reached agreement over a £35m transfer earlier today, with the England international already beginning his medical. The Reds have prioritised strengthening their defensive core, and Guehi has been a long-term target. Sources have indicated that the move should still go through, even with Palace now facing disappointment in their pursuit of Igor.
As Charlie Parker-Turner put it, “Crystal Palace working on defensive signings and minutes therefore not guaranteed” was central to Igor’s rejection of Selhurst Park. That leaves Palace short of options and scrambling for cover, but Guehi’s Anfield switch remains firmly on track.
What This Means for Palace
The setback in Palace’s chase for Igor creates a dilemma for Oliver Glasner. Losing a player of Guehi’s quality without a direct replacement could affect their defensive balance. Igor’s decision to explore a move to West Ham leaves Palace with little room to manoeuvre as the clock ticks down.
Palace may need to rely on existing squad depth until the January window, a less than ideal outcome.
Liverpool’s Defensive Statement
For Liverpool, this development underlines their determination to add quality in defence under Arne Slot. Guehi’s potential arrival signals clear intent to compete at the highest level this season. With a packed fixture schedule ahead, depth at centre-back is not only desirable but essential.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool perspective, this report brings a sense of reassurance and excitement. The club have been proactive on deadline day, addressing one of the most pressing squad needs. Marc Guehi is a strong, composed centre-back with Premier League experience, and at £35m, he represents a smart investment.
There will naturally be some concern about how Palace respond, but the reality is that Liverpool’s priority must be ensuring defensive stability. Guehi alongside Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté and Giovanni Leoni offers strong balance between youth and experience.
Many supporters will also feel that Arne Slot has been backed properly with this move. His early weeks in charge have shown a clear desire to refresh the squad and this signing fits perfectly into that plan. Palace’s failure to land Igor may create some noise, but it should not derail what looks like an important deal for Liverpool.
In truth, the timing could hardly be better. A long campaign lies ahead and depth will prove decisive. If Guehi completes his move today, fans will see it as a significant step towards keeping Liverpool competitive on all fronts.
