Caughtoffside

Report: Liverpool can now sign “exceptional” target at a discount of 30% in January

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Liverpool's proposed £35 million transfer of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi collapsed at the deadline after Palace pulled out due to inability to secure a replacement, despite Guehi having already completed a medical and personal terms being agreed. The move was highly anticipated, with Liverpool keen to bolster their defense and Guehi eager to join a club competing regularly for major trophies like the Premier League and Champions League.

The deal fell through after Palace manager Oliver Glasner threatened to resign if Guehi was sold without a proper replacement, leading chairman Steve Parish to reverse his initial approval just hours before the window closed. This sudden change left Guehi "devastated" and furious, as he had conducted himself professionally throughout the transfer saga and was committed to the move. It also created uncertainty around his future, with Guehi informing Palace he does not intend to renew his contract and plans to run down his deal to leave on a free transfer next summer.

Guehi, 25, has been one of Crystal Palace's standout defenders since joining from Chelsea and has recently helped the club secure the FA Cup and Community Shield. His desire to play at a higher level in Liverpool's squad, alongside England teammates and under manager Arne Slot, is well-documented. However, the failed transfer has strained his relationship with Palace's hierarchy and increased pressure on the club's management to handle the fallout.



For Liverpool, the missed opportunity to sign Guehi this summer could lead them to revisit negotiations in the January transfer window or pursue him as a free agent in 2026. The club has already strengthened in other areas but views Guehi as a key addition to their defensive lineup.



Summarizing, the collapse of the transfer was primarily due to Palace’s managerial stance and lack of replacement rather than lack of agreement with Liverpool or the player, leaving Guehi’s career at a crossroads and Liverpool considering alternative plans for reinforcing their defense.

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PP