Marc Guehi’s only preferred destination in the failed transfer was Liverpool, says BBC journalist

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

Guehi Made Liverpool His Only Choice
According to BBC Sport’s senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel, the England international was willing to wait for Liverpool, making it clear that any official offer would be “Liverpool or nothing.”

This highlights the strong appeal Liverpool holds, with players like Harvey Elliott visibly heartbroken at the prospect of leaving, and potential signings eager to wear the red jersey.

Crystal Palace had agreed in principle to a £35 million deal, but last-minute changes after the deadline submission ultimately scuppered the move.

The sudden change of heart explains why senior Liverpool figures were reportedly frustrated with how the negotiations unfolded.

Palace Boss Emerges Victorious
Palace manager Oliver Glasner came out on top in this saga by keeping his captain, despite missing out on a significant transfer fee. The Austrian coach, whose contract expires next summer, had repeatedly insisted during pre-season that Guehi wouldn’t be sold.

Though Guehi was recovering from a minor hamstring injury during Palace’s summer camp, he respected the club’s stance and didn’t push for a move.

However, his refusal to sign a new contract keeps the door open for Liverpool’s future interest.

Liverpool Still Leading the Race
Having played 44 matches across all competitions last season and helped Palace lift the FA Cup, Guehi is now entering the final year of his contract. Palace tried to extend his deal, but the defender declined.

With Tottenham reportedly showing interest under new manager Thomas Frank, Palace hoped to trigger a bidding war.

Yet, as BBC Sport confirms, Guehi’s clear message remains: he wants to join Liverpool or run down his contract to leave on a free next summer.

This stance firmly places Liverpool as favorites to secure a key defensive signing, especially after the sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen.

Liverpool’s recent signing of Giovanni Leoni signals future planning, but adding a proven Premier League captain like Guehi could be the perfect partner for Virgil van Dijk and his eventual successor.

By rejecting all other options, Guehi has ensured this transfer saga isn’t over. For now, he stays at Palace, but all signs point to Anfield as his preferred destination, either in January or summer 2026.

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