Caughtoffside

Liverpool now confident of signing second Premier League star alongside Alexander Isak

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Liverpool have made a formal offer of £35 million, including a 10% sell-on clause, to Crystal Palace for their captain and centre-back Marc Guehi ahead of the September 1 Premier League transfer deadline. However, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has publicly stated that the club must keep Guehi for a successful season, emphasizing his integral role in Palace's defensive structure and leadership on the pitch. Glasner reiterated that no deal has been reached and that they require a suitable replacement before considering selling Guehi, a condition not yet met by the club’s transfer plans.

Despite Liverpool's improved bid, Palace remains reluctant to let their captain leave without securing another defender first. Reports indicate that Palace are actively pursuing potential replacements, targeting defenders such as Brighton’s Igor Julio and Chelsea’s Axel Disasi. These efforts suggest they are preparing to maintain balance in the squad if Guehi departs. Palace chairman Steve Parish acknowledges the financial implications of Guehi’s expiring contract but supports the manager’s stance to hold on to the player unless proper transfer conditions are fulfilled.

Meanwhile, Guehi has not let transfer speculation affect his on-field performances, recently scoring a notable goal in Palace’s 3-0 win over Aston Villa. This form underscores his importance to Palace during this critical juncture in the season. The transfer situation is also linked to Liverpool's potential deal to send defender Joe Gomez to AC Milan, with Liverpool reportedly requiring Guehi’s arrival before allowing Gomez to move.



In summary, Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi is active and financially serious, but Crystal Palace’s firm position backed by their managerial and club leadership hinges on securing an adequate replacement before agreeing to the transfer, meaning the deal remains unresolved as the deadline looms.




PP