Liverpool Take Marc Guehi Transfer Gamble with Man City Ready to Pounce

Liverpool are pushing aggressively to secure Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi as a free agent next summer, despite the risk of losing him for nothing amid growing interest from Manchester City and others. Guehi, an England international, has entered the final six months of his contract, expiring June 30, 2026, allowing clubs to negotiate pre-contracts now.[1]

Palace were open to a £35m deal with Liverpool last summer, which collapsed on deadline day, but the player remains familiar with Anfield's plans for him. Liverpool view Guehi as a key defensive reinforcement, especially with Ibrahima Konaté also in contract limbo.[1] Sources indicate Liverpool's strategy is to wait until July for a free transfer, a high-stakes gamble as Guehi could depart immediately for a cut-price January fee or sign elsewhere pre-contract.[1][2]

Manchester City pose the biggest threat, preparing a January bid amid a center-back crisis. Injuries to Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias, plus uncertainties over John Stones and Nathan Aké's futures, have City scouting Guehi actively.[1][3] Palace manager Oliver Glasner remains pragmatic, stating he'd accept a "very high price" if Guehi wishes to leave, showing no extra concern compared to summer.[1]

Arsenal and Bayern Munich are also monitoring. Bayern, uniquely positioned, can discuss terms immediately and want Guehi as a free agent.[1] Palace captain Glasner downplayed January exit fears, but with Guehi informing the club of his intent to leave, the race intensifies.[1]

For Liverpool, signing Guehi is now "non-negotiable" to bolster defense, per reports, but City's readiness to pounce forces Arne Slot's side to counter decisively or risk missing out.[2][3] The transfer saga highlights Palace's leverage diminishing, with Guehi's options expanding across Europe's elite.[1]

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