Liverpool’s Pursuit of Marc Guehi Takes Fresh Twist

Liverpool’s summer rebuild under Arne Slot has already delivered major defensive changes, yet the pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi continues to dominate headlines. With a £35 million fee agreed and a medical reportedly completed, the expectation was that Guehi would be unveiled as Liverpool’s latest signing. However, the collapse of a separate deal has introduced uncertainty to a transfer that appeared close to completion.

Ongoing Uncertainty Around Guehi Transfer

Liverpool had lined up Fiorentina defender Igor as part of their defensive restructuring, only for that move to fall apart late in negotiations. The knock-on effect has raised questions over whether Crystal Palace will proceed with the sale of Guehi, particularly given their ongoing struggle to secure an adequate replacement.

Sky Sports’ Rob Dorsett explained the situation in detail:

*”It’s a fascinating situation. I’m told by two sources at Crystal Palace categorically that Marc Guehi will still join Liverpool even after the Igor transfer collapsed.

“There is some conjecture about that. But I can only report what I am being told.

“But the fact of the matter is that Palace are struggling to find a replacement for Guehi. And we have been told all through the window that Palace will only let Guehi go if they have a replacement through the door.

“Extraordinary developments…”*

Palace’s Transfer Challenge

Palace’s reluctance is rooted in the difficulty of sourcing a centre back capable of filling the void Guehi would leave. The club value him highly, not only for his defensive quality but also for his leadership, and they remain cautious about weakening their squad without securing reinforcements. This stance has left Liverpool waiting for clarity, despite their readiness to finalise the move.

Liverpool’s Defensive Rebuild

Arne Slot has already overseen sweeping changes to his defensive options since arriving at Anfield. Caoimhin Kelleher, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jarell Quansah and Kostas Tsimikas have all departed, while Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Giovanni Leoni and Milos Kerkez have arrived to reshape the back line. Guehi, a 25-year-old England international, is seen as a pivotal addition who can provide stability at centre back for years to come.

Next Steps in Negotiations

The prevailing belief around Liverpool remains that the Guehi deal will eventually go through, though Crystal Palace’s replacement search is the deciding factor. Until a new defender walks through the doors at Selhurst Park, the situation is unlikely to reach a conclusion. For Liverpool, patience may be required as the transfer window continues to unfold.