Liverpool’s summer transfer window has taken a dramatic twist as the club edges closer to landing Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi. The England international has been one of the Premier League’s standout performers over the past two seasons, and his potential switch to Anfield could represent one of the most impactful defensive signings of the summer. Despite a £10 million gap between the two clubs’ valuations, Liverpool remain determined to reach an agreement before the transfer window closes.
The 25-year-old centre-back has only a year left on his contract at Selhurst Park, which has attracted the attention of several top-flight sides. Palace are holding firm at their £45 million asking price, while Liverpool believe £35 million better reflects his contract situation and long-term value.
Talks have been tense, as Palace are reluctant to lose a defender who has been central to Oliver Glasner’s system. Guéhi’s calmness, consistency, and leadership were evident during England’s Euro 2024 campaign, making him even more appealing to Liverpool, who see him as more than just a squad addition. The Reds view him as a cornerstone defender who could eventually lead their backline.
Speculation around Guéhi’s future grew after Palace’s goalless draw with Chelsea. Glasner dismissed rumours of conflict, praising his commitment, but reports suggest the defender is eager for a new challenge. Former goalkeeper Ben Foster has also hinted on his podcast that Guéhi’s determination makes a Liverpool move highly likely.
For manager Arne Slot, the transfer aligns with his vision of strengthening defensive depth. While Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté remain his first-choice pairing, injuries and a demanding schedule highlight the need for reliable reinforcements. Guéhi’s Premier League experience, physicality, and ball-playing ability make him a perfect fit for Slot’s tactical style.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are already weighing up possible replacements. Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande and Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez are both on their radar, though neither offers Guéhi’s leadership qualities. Chairman Steve Parish faces a difficult decision: cash in now or risk losing him for nothing next summer.
Although Glasner insists Guéhi and teammate Eberechi Eze are still fully committed, signs suggest Palace are softening their stance. Liverpool’s readiness to compromise, combined with Guéhi’s desire to step up, may ultimately push the deal over the line.
If completed, the transfer would not only strengthen Liverpool’s defence but also send a strong message across the Premier League. Signing Guéhi would underline Liverpool’s determination to rival Manchester City and Arsenal while giving the defender the chance to play Champions League football and compete for trophies at the peak of his career.
As the deadline looms, the so-called “Anfield Coup” looks set to be one of the defining moves of the summer — a bold statement of intent from Liverpool in their quest to return to the top of English football.
