Liverpool Transfer Latest: Next Signing Becomes Clear as Marc Guehi Makes Final Decision

Liverpool's hopes of signing Marc Guehi have been dashed once again, as the Crystal Palace defender has agreed to a £20m transfer to Manchester City in the January window, leaving Anfield fans frustrated with FSG's financial caution[1][3].

Guehi, a 25-year-old England international and one of the Premier League's top centre-backs, was a prime target for Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes. Liverpool nearly secured him last summer for £35m, but the deal collapsed on deadline day. With Guehi's Palace contract expiring at season's end, the Reds had planned a free transfer in summer 2026[1][3][6].

However, injuries to Manchester City's Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias prompted Pep Guardiola to act swiftly. Fabrizio Romano confirmed the deal: "Marc Guehi to Manchester City, HERE WE GO! Official proposal accepted by Crystal Palace — fee around £20m. Guehi has ACCEPTED move to #MCFC"[1]. Palace boss Oliver Glasner hinted at the imminent exit, benching Guehi for their next match[3].

Liverpool were reportedly willing to pay £30m but balked at Guehi's new contract demands, prioritizing a pre-contract agreement later. Sources indicate FSG's "stubborn" stance on finances cost them twice—first in 2025 summer, now in January 2026[1][2]. City, unburdened by such hesitation, swooped in, securing Guehi's pace, defensive prowess, ball-playing ability, and set-piece threat (5 goals, 4 assists in recent seasons)[3].

This leaves Liverpool to pivot to other centre-back options, with fans lamenting the gamble of waiting for free agency. As one report notes, Guehi "is not the only Premier League centre-back bargain" available in 2026, but City's move removes a key target[6]. Slot's side now focuses on internal solutions amid defensive injury concerns[4][5].

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