Joyce: Liverpool will only sign Guehi on free after Palace collapse

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Liverpool’s pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi collapsed on the summer transfer deadline despite an agreed £35 million fee and completed medicals. Guehi was prepared to join the Premier League champions, but Palace chairman Steve Parish halted the deal at the last moment due to Palace’s failure to secure a replacement player, leaving Guehi frustrated and Liverpool without their transfer target.

According to Paul Joyce of The Times, Liverpool have taken a firm stance, deciding not to pursue Guehi in the January window either. Their recruitment team sees no justification to pay a transfer fee for a player who will enter the final year of his contract and who refuses to sign an extension. This position reflects Liverpool’s broader commitment to financial discipline and long-term squad planning.

Negotiations between Liverpool and Palace had been complex and protracted. After an initial valuation of £35 million set by Parish, Liverpool offered the amount plus a 10% sell-on clause, which Palace initially accepted. However, concerns expressed by Palace manager Oliver Glasner, especially after Brighton defender Igor withdrew from a proposed move to Selhurst Park, led Parish to retract the deal at the last moment. The breakdown was particularly disappointing for Guehi, who had expressed his clear intention to move to Liverpool and join manager Arne Slot’s side.

Ultimately, Liverpool’s decision to wait until next summer to pursue the transfer rather than forcing a January deal underlines their strategic approach to transfers — preferring patience and financial prudence over rushed acquisitions. Guehi will now likely remain at Crystal Palace until his contract expires.

PP