Liverpool Transfer News LIVE: Guehi Snubs Reds for Man City, AFCON Chaos Hits Squad, Bastoni Interest Heats Up, Yan Diomande Update

Manchester City Hijack Liverpool's Marc Guehi Pursuit: Liverpool's hopes of signing Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi in January 2026 have been dashed, as Manchester City have agreed a £20m deal to secure the England international now, rather than waiting for his free transfer at season's end.[1][3] The Reds nearly landed Guehi on deadline day last summer in a £35m deal, but Palace blocked it without a replacement. Slot and Hughes eyed a pre-contract, but City's injuries to Gvardiol and Dias prompted a swift bid that Guehi accepted, including a massive wage package reportedly around £300k/week—too rich for FSG's stance against January fees.[1][2][5] Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed Guehi is in "final stages" and sat him out vs. Sunderland.[3]

AFCON Chaos Disrupts Liverpool Plans: Ongoing Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have caused turmoil, with key loanees and targets unavailable amid fixture pile-ups. Reports swirl of potential withdrawals or disruptions affecting Arne Slot's squad rotation.[web:0]

Alessandro Bastoni Interest Intensifies: Liverpool have reignited talks for Inter Milan's versatile defender Alessandro Bastoni, valued at £60m+. Fabrizio Romano hints at "concrete steps" as the Reds seek centre-back depth post-Guehi blow. Inter demand top dollar, but Slot sees him as ideal for his system.[web:1]

Yan Diomande Update – Deal Close?: Positive noises on Sporting CP's Yan Diomande, with Liverpool advancing in negotiations for the £40m-rated Ivorian. Personal terms nearly agreed; medical could follow soon, providing a Guehi alternative. Diomande's pace and ball-playing suit Anfield perfectly.[web:2]

Other Updates: Massive Chelsea bid for Liverpool's second CB target risks another hijack; Slot eyes Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck as fallback. Stay tuned for live build-up to City's derby clash and Reds' next fixtures.[2]

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