Explained: Why aren't Liverpool making a move for Marc Guehi?
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Marc Guehi: Why Aren't Liverpool Making a Move for the Crystal Palace Defender?
Manchester City have agreed a £20m deal for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, derailing Liverpool's long-term plans for the England international. Fabrizio Romano confirmed the transfer with his signature "HERE WE GO" on X, stating Palace accepted the official proposal, Guehi agreed personal terms, and the fee is around £20m amid City's injury crisis to Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias[1][3][4].
Guehi, out of contract at the end of the season, was a top target for Liverpool manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes, who eyed a 2026 free transfer or earlier move[1][2]. A £35m deal collapsed on deadline day in summer 2025 when Palace couldn't secure a replacement, despite reports of a completed medical[2][3][4]. Liverpool were reportedly ready to pay £30m this January but balked at Guehi's new contract demands, allowing City to swoop[1].
Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed Guehi is in the "final stages" of a transfer and won't play against Sunderland, while announcing his own departure at season's end[1][4]. Pep Guardiola dodged questions on the deal ahead of City's Manchester United clash[4].
Liverpool won't rival City this window, per reports, shifting focus to alternatives. Options include Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni (£80m, summer likely), Tottenham's Cristian Romero, and Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi (contract expiring June 2026, keen on a step up)[2]. Guehi's Palace form—key in FA Cup and Community Shield wins, England's go-to centre-back—highlighted his defensive prowess, pace, duels, ball-playing ability, and set-piece threat (5 goals, 4 assists last two PL seasons)[4].
Anfield regrets linger over the saga, but with two weeks left in January, Slot can pivot without the drama that scuppered prior bids[3][5].
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