Liverpool are leading the race to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who has reportedly turned down a potential move to Arsenal. The 24-year-old England international is attracting interest from several top clubs but prefers a switch to Anfield, where he sees a clearer path to regular first-team football.
Guehi has developed into one of the Premier League’s standout centre-backs since joining Palace from Chelsea in 2021. Despite his respect for Palace, he has decided not to extend his contract, which runs until June 2026. As a result, Palace may sell him this summer to avoid losing him for free next year.
While Arsenal have shown interest, Guehi is wary of competing with William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes for playing time. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, he wants a guaranteed starting role—something Liverpool may be better positioned to offer.
Liverpool see Guehi as a potential replacement for Jarell Quansah, who is nearing a move to Bayer Leverkusen, and as cover for the uncertain future of Ibrahima Konate. He would partner Virgil van Dijk in the heart of defense.
The Reds are reportedly close to agreeing personal terms with Guehi and are expected to open formal negotiations with Palace soon. Although Palace have set a £70 million asking price, Liverpool hope to secure the deal for around £45 million due to the defender’s contract situation.
Other clubs including Newcastle, Tottenham, Bournemouth, and Inter Milan are also interested, but Liverpool appear to be in the strongest position. The club is enjoying a busy transfer window, having already signed Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz. They’ve also reached an agreement with Bournemouth for left-back Milos Kerkez, with Guehi potentially being the next major arrival under new manager Arne Slot
