Liverpool’s £45 million transfer chase could be postponed as Slot’s desired player is happy to stay at his current club.

Liverpool’s plans to bolster their defence this summer could hit a roadblock, as one of their key targets is in no hurry to leave his current club.

Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian reports that Marc Guehi is open to staying at Crystal Palace for the final year of his contract if a suitable offer doesn’t materialise. Though the 24-year-old centre-back has made it clear he won’t be signing a new deal, he’s determined to leave on his own terms.

This creates a dilemma for Liverpool. They are reportedly preparing a move for the England international once Jarell Quansah completes a £30 million transfer to Bayer Leverkusen. Quansah’s likely departure would leave a gap in defence after a promising season with 25 appearances, making reinforcements a priority.

Guehi, who recently played a pivotal role in Palace’s FA Cup success, is focused on consistent playing time to secure his place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup. While a move to Liverpool offers the appeal of working under new manager Arne Slot and competing for silverware, breaking into the established partnership of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate may prove challenging.

Van Dijk has just extended his contract and remains a defensive mainstay at 33, while Konate—though in the final year of his contract—continues to struggle with fitness issues, potentially opening the door for squad rotation.

Although Liverpool have already signed Florian Wirtz this summer, they may continue targeting defensive reinforcements due to ongoing concerns over Joe Gomez’s injury record and Konate’s uncertain future.

Nevertheless, The Guardian notes that Guehi is unwilling to rush a decision. If no ideal move arises, he’s prepared to see out his contract, which could result in him leaving for free next summer or signing a pre-contract with an overseas club in January — a scenario that may force Palace to reconsider their £45 million valuation.

If Liverpool step up their pursuit, it remains to be seen whether the allure of joining the Premier League champions will outweigh Guehi’s desire for regular playing time.