'Deal now closer': Marc Guehi transfer advances as Liverpool forced to make snap decision - Fabrizio Romano

Marc Guéhi's potential transfer from Crystal Palace to Manchester City is gaining momentum as the January 2026 window nears its close, putting Liverpool in a precarious position[1][2].

According to reliable sources like Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City are advancing negotiations for the 25-year-old England international captain, who is in the final six months of his contract. Palace's £35 million valuation remains a sticking point, but City—dealing with injuries to Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias, plus uncertainties over John Stones and Nathan Aké—are preparing an offer they hope Palace can't refuse[1][2]. Guéhi, praised for his space control, passing-lane closures, and tactical flexibility in back-three or back-four systems, is seen as a "no-brainer" cut-price signing before he becomes a free agent in July[1].

The plot thickens for Liverpool, long-term admirers who nearly secured him last summer. With City pushing hard, Anfield officials face a snap decision: match or counter City's bid to avoid losing out, or risk waiting until summer when Bayern Munich—already in pre-contract talks via sporting director Max Eberl—could swoop for free[2]. Palace boss Oliver Glasner has confirmed Guéhi's intent to leave, leaving the club open to immediate deals but demanding a sizeable fee[2].

Guéhi remains "relaxed," having attracted interest from Arsenal, Bayern, and others, but City's urgency stems from defensive woes. As Romano notes, the "deal now closer" signals advanced talks, forcing Liverpool to act decisively or pivot plans amid a wide-open race[1][2]. This high-stakes saga underscores Guéhi's elite status, blending eye-test prowess with data-defying preventative defending.

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