Arne Slot Makes Five-Word Liverpool Transfer Declaration Amid Marc Guehi Snub

Manchester City have hijacked Liverpool's long-standing pursuit of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, agreeing a £20m-£35m deal on January 16, 2026, despite the England defender's preference for Anfield[1][2][4]. Liverpool manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes had targeted Guehi for a 2026 free transfer after missing out on deadline day last summer, when the player reportedly completed a medical before Palace pulled out[1][2][3].

City acted swiftly due to injuries to Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the "HERE WE GO" transfer: Palace accepted an offer around £35m with bonuses (or £20m per some reports), and Guehi verbally agreed a 5.5-year contract as a top-10 earner[1][2][3]. Palace opted to cash in rather than lose him for free[2].

Liverpool's hopes crumbled for two key reasons. First, Fenway Sports Group (FSG) refused to pay £30m mid-season, viewing it as no "market opportunity" unlike September's near-deal, prioritizing summer moves[1][2][4]. Second, when Guehi asked if Slot would remain manager next season amid sack rumors, Liverpool replied "no comment"—prompting him to choose City, who also beat them to Antoine Semenyo[2].

Slot's blunt five-word response to the Guehi saga: "We move on, focus elsewhere," signaling no late hijack attempt[1][2]. The Reds now eye alternatives like Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni (£80m), Tottenham's Cristian Romero, or Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi (contract expiring June 2026), with moves likelier in summer amid Ibrahima Konate uncertainty[3].

This blow underscores Liverpool's cautious January stance under FSG, as City capitalize on their hesitation and internal doubts[1][2][4].

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