Liverpool await Real Madrid decision on possible Marc Guehi alternative

Liverpool are monitoring Real Madrid’s stance on defender Antonio Rüdiger as they weigh up alternatives to primary target Marc Guehi. With Crystal Palace still demanding a premium fee despite Guehi entering the final months of his contract, Liverpool are reluctant to be drawn into a bidding war and are therefore assessing more opportunistic options across Europe.

Real Madrid are in the process of reshaping their defence, with contract decisions looming on several senior centre-backs. Rüdiger’s situation is attracting attention at Anfield, as the 32‑year‑old could become available if Madrid commit fully to a younger core. Liverpool view him as a short‑term, elite solution who would bring Champions League experience, leadership and immediate reliability on the right side of central defence.

The club’s recruitment team are said to be ready to move quickly should Madrid signal a willingness to sell or relax their stance. Until then, Liverpool are keeping communication lines open with Palace over Guehi but are unwilling to overpay in January when a free transfer or reduced‑price deal in the summer remains possible. Their strategy is to avoid panic buying, instead exploiting any market inefficiencies that arise late in the window.

Internally, there is recognition that defensive reinforcement is needed to support Virgil van Dijk and cover ongoing fitness concerns elsewhere at centre-back. However, Liverpool remain confident in their negotiating position. They are prepared to walk away from Guehi if the numbers do not align with their long‑term planning, trusting that Madrid’s decision on Rüdiger – or movement on other high‑level targets – could yet present a more favourable opportunity before the window closes.