BBC journalist reports that Marc Guehi was solely interested in joining Liverpool during the unsuccessful deadline day transfer.

Liverpool’s defensive overhaul could continue next summer, as Marc Guehi’s intentions about his future have become clear following the collapse of his deadline day transfer.

Guehi had made Liverpool his only target. According to senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel from BBC Sport, the England international was willing to wait for Liverpool and made it known that any official offer would be “Liverpool or nothing.”

This reflects the strong reputation Anfield holds, with players like Harvey Elliott reluctant to leave and prospective signings eager to wear the red shirt.

Crystal Palace had agreed to a £35 million deal in principle, but last-minute changes after the deadline submission caused the transfer to fall through.

These sudden alterations explain why senior Liverpool officials were reportedly unhappy with how the negotiations unfolded.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner was the clear winner, retaining his captain despite missing out on a significant financial boost.

The Austrian coach, whose contract also expires next summer, was firm throughout pre-season that Guehi would not be sold.

Despite recovering from a minor hamstring injury during Palace’s summer training, Guehi respected Glasner’s position and did not push for a move.

However, his refusal to sign a new contract leaves the door open for Liverpool to return.

Liverpool remains the leading contender for a future deal. Guehi, who played 44 matches last season and helped lift the FA Cup, is entering the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park. Palace tried to extend his contract, but the defender declined.

With Tottenham showing interest under new manager Thomas Frank, Palace sought to ignite a bidding war.

Still, BBC Sport reports Guehi’s firm stance is to join Liverpool or leave as a free agent next summer.

This makes Liverpool the front-runners for a long-term defensive signing, especially after the sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen.

Liverpool’s acquisition of Giovanni Leoni shows planning for the future, but a proven Premier League captain like Guehi would be an ideal partner for Virgil van Dijk and his successor.

Guehi’s choice to reject other offers means this story isn’t finished yet.

For now, he remains at Palace, but all signs suggest Anfield is his favored destination in January or the summer of 2026.