Liverpool’s summer transfer business has been nothing short of decisive.

The club has already strengthened key positions early, giving new arrivals a full preseason under Arne Slot.

But there is still a major gap to fill in defence.

Liverpool have been tracking one target for months.

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The competition for his signature has been real.

Chelsea’s interest has been well known in the past, and Newcastle United once pushed hard to get him.

Both clubs had the resources to compete, which made the race tight.

Now, circumstances have shifted.

Chelsea’s focus is elsewhere.

Newcastle’s priorities have changed.

For Liverpool, the picture is becoming clearer.

The opportunity to land their long-term target has never looked better.

Earlier in the year, DaveOCKOP exclusively revealed that Liverpool had been in touch with the representatives of Marc Guehi.

Talks have since advanced.

It didn’t stop there.

DaveOCKOP also exclusively confirmed that “Liverpool have now reached an agreement with Guehi on personal terms.”

The 24-year-old “has agreed his wages and contract length, but now the Reds have to strike an agreement with Crystal Palace.”

Chelsea, despite losing Levi Colwill to injury, are “trying also to find different solutions,” according to manager Enzo Maresca.

While Guehi is admired at Stamford Bridge, “his return is not currently on the agenda.”

Newcastle, who valued him at £65 million last summer and came close to a £70 million deal, are now looking for a striker.

Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner also addressed the situation on the eve of Sunday’s Community Shield clash against Liverpool.

“Marc and me, we have the same fate, but I can’t speak on behalf of Marc,” he said.

Guehi has just one year left on his Palace deal, with “no sign of an extension.”

For Liverpool, the homegrown defender would not only replace Jarell Quansah but also add proven Premier League quality.

The path is now open.

It’s up to the Reds to finish the job.

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