Marc Guehi transfer preference emerges as Arsenal and Liverpool battle takes twist

Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi has emerged as one of the most sought-after centre-backs ahead of the next transfer window, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City all vying for his signature. With his contract running down and just months remaining on his deal, Palace face a major decision: cash in now or risk losing him on a free in the summer.

The article explains that Manchester City were initially seen as favourites, driven by a defensive injury crisis that has sidelined key players and created an urgent need for reinforcements. City are thought to be willing to pay a significant fee to bring Guehi in immediately, with figures around £40 million mentioned in various reports as Palace’s likely asking price in January.

However, the transfer battle has taken a twist as Guehi’s personal preference has reportedly shifted the landscape. He is said to favour a move to either Arsenal or Liverpool rather than City, and is prepared to wait until the summer to secure what he views as the ideal next step in his career. Liverpool came close to signing him last summer before a late collapse in negotiations, and their long-standing interest, plus the chance to partner Virgil van Dijk, remains attractive.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have recently entered the race more seriously despite already boasting strong defensive depth. Mikel Arteta sees Guehi as an opportunity to further strengthen an evolving, largely English core. The article notes that although regular starts are not guaranteed at either Arsenal or Liverpool, both clubs offer a sporting project that appeals more to Guehi than City’s scenario, where he may be viewed primarily as short-term cover.

Ultimately, Palace’s stance and the timing of any formal offers will determine whether a deal happens in January or is delayed until the summer, but the piece underlines that Guehi’s priority destination now lies with Arsenal or Liverpool, leaving City unexpectedly on the outside looking in.