Liverpool are close to making a decisive move in their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi amid the transfer window's final phase. The Reds have observed Guehi, valued at around £45 million by Palace, as a smart opportunistic signing rather than an immediate priority, but recent developments suggest this may change soon.
Currently, Liverpool's centre-back options are limited due to injuries and departures, notably Joe Gomez’s pre-season injury and Jarell Quansah’s sale to Bayer Leverkusen. Manager Thomas Slot is keen on reinforcing the defence, and with Guehi's contract expiring soon and Palace’s willingness to negotiate, Liverpool sees potential to secure the talented England international at a more reasonable price if talks are timed right.
Guehi is admired for his composure, tactical discipline, and leadership qualities, traits that align with Liverpool’s defensive needs, especially as the team manages aging and fitness challenges with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté. Palace’s uncertain European ambitions and Guehi’s reluctance to extend his contract further motivate a transfer this summer.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Liverpool plans to present formal transfer proposals imminently, aiming to leverage Guehi’s desire for regular Champions League football and game time. This signing could also serve as a direct replacement if Konaté departs amid his own contract issues. The intended deal reflects a strategic signing to bolster Liverpool’s squad depth and defensive resilience for the season ahead.
Although Liverpool has not made a definitive offer yet, the club appears prepared to wait until later in the transfer window to negotiate a lower fee. Supporters view Guehi’s potential arrival as a clever move, enhancing squad balance and offering a promising future leader at Anfield. The signing aligns with Liverpool's broader summer transfer strategy, which also targets reinforcing other areas such as the attack and youth prospects.