Liverpool are pushing to sign Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi, with talks between the clubs said to be advancing this weekend. The highly-rated 24-year-old centre-back is entering the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, making him a prime target for Europe's top clubs, including the reigning Premier League champions.
The Reds are reportedly in a strong position to secure Guehi's signature, despite previous interest from Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur. Journalist Nicolo Schira reported positive discussions between Guehi's agents and Liverpool, with the player giving his approval for a contract until 2030. This personal agreement marks a key step in the potential transfer.
A major sticking point, however, remains the transfer fee. Crystal Palace had previously valued their skipper at around £70 million, even rejecting a £65 million bid from Newcastle last year. Yet, with Guehi's contract due to expire on 30 June 2026, the south London club are now thought to be open to offers between £40 million and £45 million. Some reports even suggest Liverpool could prepare an initial offer closer to £30 million. It is understood Chelsea also have a 20% sell-on clause from Guehi’s £18 million move to Palace in 2021.
The timing of Liverpool's pursuit comes as they prepare for a significant defensive shake-up. Academy graduate Jarell Quansah is set to join Bayer Leverkusen in a deal potentially worth up to £35 million. Quansah, 22, will undergo a medical on Monday ahead of his move, which includes a buy-back clause for Liverpool active from summer 2027, valued between £60 million and £70 million. This sale would free up both funds and a spot in the squad for a new centre-back.
Liverpool's transfer activity this summer has already been substantial under the guidance of new head coach Arne Slot. The club have spent over £200 million, bringing in several high-profile players. Germany international Florian Wirtz arrived from Bayer Leverkusen for a fee that could rise to £116 million, whilst teammate Jeremie Frimpong also made the switch to Anfield for £29.5 million. Left-back Milos Kerkez joined from Bournemouth for £40 million, alongside goalkeepers Armin Pecsi and Freddie Woodman.
This flurry of signings shows Liverpool's ambition to strengthen their squad after a quiet period in previous transfer windows. Whilst Liverpool have historically looked for younger defenders, such as Levi Colwill (20), Leny Yoro (18), and Dean Huijsen (19) in recent windows, Guehi's standing as an established England international, coupled with his contract situation, makes him a valuable prospect. At 24 years old, he has cemented his place as one of the Premier League's top English defenders since joining Palace from Chelsea.
