With just under two weeks left before the transfer window closes, time is running out for Liverpool to secure the signing of Marc Guehi.
The Reds have held discussions with Crystal Palace about a possible move for the centre-back (per Fabrizio Romano), but as of Monday, Miguel Delaney reported that the two clubs remain £10 million apart in their valuations of the 25-year-old—with neither side currently showing a willingness to compromise.
The latest edition of The Athletic’s Transfer DealSheet, published on Tuesday, includes further insight into Liverpool’s interest in the Palace captain, who’s in the final year of his contract.
Liverpool expected to resume talks with Palace this week
David Ornstein revealed that Liverpool have had “initial dialogue” with Palace, though there’s been little progress since. He noted that if Guehi were to leave Selhurst Park this summer, Liverpool is his preferred destination. The club isn’t believed to be pursuing alternative centre-back options, as they feel their current defensive lineup already includes four top-level players.
James Pearce echoed this, reporting that while talks have taken place, the clubs remain far apart in their valuations. Further negotiations are anticipated this week. Pearce described Guehi as a “smart market opportunity” considering he could leave on a free next summer if no deal is reached now.
It’s Guehi or no one for Liverpool’s defence this summer
After adding Giovanni Leoni as their fourth senior centre-back last week, Liverpool appear to be all-in on Guehi as their only potential defensive reinforcement this window.
While that recent signing may reduce the urgency, Liverpool’s recent defensive vulnerabilities have left many fans thinking that there’s still room for improvement at the back.
If a deal is to be struck in the coming days, Liverpool will likely need to raise their current £35m offer, or Palace must lower their £45m asking price (per The Independent).
Palace are in a tough spot—either cash in now or risk losing their captain for free in 2026. But they also face the challenge of replacing a key player with limited time left in the window.
Something has to give for Liverpool to complete this move before the September 1 deadline. Palace will understandably want to keep hold of their star defender, but don’t rule out Richard Hughes pulling off another shrewd bit of business in what could be a pivotal week in the Reds’ pursuit of Guehi.
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