Liverpool’s £45m transfer could be delayed as Slot’s target is content to remain at his current club.

Liverpool’s efforts to strengthen their defence this summer may face a significant obstacle, as one of their primary targets appears content to wait before deciding on his next move.

As reported by Jacob Steinberg in The Guardian, Marc Guehi is open to seeing out the final year of his contract with Crystal Palace if a suitable offer doesn’t come along. The 24-year-old, a key figure in Palace’s recent FA Cup victory, has no intention of signing a new deal, making him available for transfer—though only under conditions that suit him.

This situation presents a challenge for Liverpool, who are eyeing a move for the England international following Jarell Quansah’s expected £30 million transfer to Bayer Leverkusen. With the squad potentially losing a reliable and versatile defender who made 25 appearances last season, defensive reinforcements are clearly a priority.

Guehi is determined to secure regular playing time next season in order to stay in contention for England’s 2026 World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel. While a transfer to Liverpool would offer him the opportunity to work with Arne Slot and chase major trophies, immediate starts might not be guaranteed due to the established centre-back pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate. Van Dijk has recently signed a new contract and remains a key figure at 33, while Konate, though entering the final year of his contract, has had recurring injury issues that could open the door for squad rotation—a factor Guehi is likely considering.

Liverpool have already secured Florian Wirtz this summer and may look to further reinforce their backline, especially given Joe Gomez’s injury history and the uncertainty around Konate’s long-term future.

However, The Guardian notes that Guehi is in no hurry to make a decision and is prepared to let his current contract expire. This would allow him to leave on a free next summer or sign a pre-contract with an overseas club in January, potentially forcing Palace to reconsider their £45 million asking price now rather than risk losing him for nothing.

If Liverpool intensify their interest, it remains to be seen whether the chance to join the Premier League champions will outweigh the promise of more consistent playing time elsewhere.