Marc Guehi: Why Liverpool Won't Rival Man City for £20m Transfer

Liverpool have no plans to compete with Manchester City for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi this January, despite City's agreement on a £20m deal for the sought-after defender.[5]

Manchester City have struck a bargain by securing Guehi for an initial £20m plus add-ons and a sell-on clause, capitalizing on his contract expiring this summer.[3][4] Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner confirmed the transfer is in its "final stages," ruling Guehi out of Saturday's match against Sunderland.[1][3] Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano posted "HERE WE GO!" on X, noting Palace accepted City's official proposal, with Guehi personally agreeing to the move.[2]

The 25-year-old England international, praised for his defensive prowess, duel-winning ability, pace, and set-piece threat (five goals and four assists in recent Premier League seasons), becomes a long-term asset for Pep Guardiola.[3] City accelerated talks after injuries to Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and John Stones depleted their center-back options.[1][4] Guehi is expected to sign a five-and-a-half-year contract until 2031.[4]

For Liverpool, this is a bitter pill. A £35m deal collapsed on deadline day last summer when Palace couldn't line up a replacement.[1][2][3] Despite manager Arne Slot having only three senior center-backs, the Reds aren't rivaling City now.[2][5] Critics question why Liverpool didn't act swiftly in January, especially knowing Guehi's willingness to join Anfield. Waiting for a free transfer in June now appears shortsighted, as City snaps him up cheaply.[2]

Interest from Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Arsenal had anticipated Guehi's free agency, but City's decisive bid ends the saga—leaving Liverpool on the sidelines.[1][3]

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