Liverpool face major hurdle in Marc Guehi chase after latest development
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Liverpool face a significant challenge in their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi due to complications around game time assurances and Palace's failure to secure a suitable replacement. The Reds have identified Guehi as a key defensive target to bolster their central defense, with talks reportedly underway and personal terms agreed.
The club has been proactive in the transfer market, adding key players like Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, and Alexander Isak, but defensive depth remains a concern. The Community Shield defeat against Crystal Palace highlighted this deficiency, signaling the urgent need for reinforcements. Liverpool could pay around £35 million for the 25-year-old England international, an FA Cup winner.
However, Guehi has reportedly sought assurances about guaranteed playing time, especially with the World Cup approaching. This demand complicates negotiations as Crystal Palace have struggled to finalize a replacement. Their pursuit of players such as Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior indicates their strategy to fill the potential gap Guehi’s departure would create.
The deal nearly fell through on deadline day because Palace failed to sign an adequate replacement. Last-minute attempts to secure players like Igor Julio collapsed, prompting Palace to keep Guehi, much to the frustration of Liverpool supporters. Consequently, Liverpool might wait until January or even next summer to renew their pursuit, with the defender potentially available for a reduced fee of about £25 million in January or on a free transfer the following summer.
Liverpool remains committed to signing Guehi, viewing him as a priority to address their defensive frailties. Although competition from overseas clubs is expected, Liverpool hopes their longstanding interest positions them well to secure the defender in future windows.
PP