Liverpool Could Rival Man City with New Marc Guehi Offer After Crushing Blow

Liverpool face a potential transfer setback as Manchester City prepare a January bid for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, despite a previous collapsed deal for the Reds.[3][4]

Guehi's contract expires in June 2026, allowing a free summer exit, but his preference leans toward waiting—though City aim to act now amid defensive injuries to Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and concerns over John Stones and Nathan Ake.[2][5] Palace demand around £35m, a fee they nearly accepted from Liverpool last summer before the £35m deal crumbled on deadline day.[3][5]

Fabrizio Romano reports City will "try next week" with a strong proposal, ready to negotiate if Guehi agrees, while Liverpool push for a free-agent signing but risk losing him.[2] Arsenal and Bayern Munich also show interest, with Mikel Arteta a fan, yet Guehi's plan remains a summer move.[2][5]

For Arne Slot's Liverpool, Guehi is ideal: homegrown, Premier League-proven, and versatile in back-threes or fours.[2][4] With only four senior centre-backs—and one injured until season's end—the Reds lack depth, especially as Ibrahima Konate nears contract expiry.[2][5] City, deeper in options, still covet his space control and passing efficiency, which data undervalues.[4]

Palace boss Oliver Glasner expects a high fee, unconcerned by January speculation.[5] A City swoop would be a "crushing blow" for Liverpool, who must counter with a new offer to rival their title challengers and secure the 25-year-old England star before summer.[2][3]

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