Marc Guehi transfer preference made clear as ‘talks still ongoing’ before Monday deadline
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Marc Guehi's transfer to Liverpool is currently progressing, with negotiations ongoing between Liverpool and Crystal Palace. Despite the club's desire to keep him, Guehi has expressed a firm intention not to renew his contract and is aiming for a move to Liverpool as his next career chapter. Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has stated that Guehi can stay if he signs a new deal, but the player prefers to move on. Liverpool views Guehi as a key immediate defensive reinforcer, complementing their recent signing Giovanni Leoni, who is seen as a future long-term successor for Virgil van Dijk or Ibrahima Konate. The Reds are keen to sign both players in this transfer window.
Financially, Liverpool aims to secure Guehi for around £35 million but is reluctant to exceed £40 million. Crystal Palace is holding out for £45 million, so a compromise is needed to finalize the deal. If a transfer is not completed by the September 1 deadline, Liverpool can revisit negotiations in January, potentially signing Guehi on a free transfer in 2026 as he enters the final year of his contract.
Meanwhile, Manchester City is reportedly considering entering the race for Guehi, especially if they offload defenders Manuel Akanji and Nathan Aké in the closing days of the transfer window. City views Guehi as a player of long-term value, potentially complicating Liverpool's pursuit.
Guehi has become a crucial figure at Crystal Palace since his arrival from Chelsea and is valued for his homegrown status, which benefits Liverpool's Premier League squad regulations. With Palace having already sold Eberechi Eze this summer, losing Guehi would be a significant hit to their squad depth, as noted by manager Oliver Glasner. Liverpool's new manager Arne Slot is keen to strengthen the defense further to sustain the club's recent Premier League success.
The situation remains fluid, with talks continuing and Liverpool hopeful to conclude a deal soon to reinforce their defense before the transfer window closes.
PP