Liverpool fans thought it was almost done. The image of **Marc Guehi** walking out at Anfield in the famous red shirt was so close on deadline day, many could already picture it. The **25-year-old Crystal Palace defender** had passed his Liverpool medical, paperwork was ready, and a **£35 million deal** was in place.
Then, in shocking fashion, Palace pulled the plug.
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## The Deadline Day Collapse
Liverpool manager **Arne Slot** believed Guehi was the perfect partner for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté. Guehi himself was excited, prepared to make the leap into Champions League nights and Premier League title pushes.
But Palace manager **Oliver Glasner** refused to let him go, convincing owner **Steve Parish** that the club had no suitable replacement. Hours of heated talks ended with Liverpool’s deal collapsing. Guehi, who had already envisioned life at Anfield, was left devastated.
## Guehi’s Response on the Pitch
To his credit, Guehi didn’t sulk. He’s been outstanding for both Palace and England since, even scoring his **first senior international goal** in the **5-0 win over Serbia** during World Cup qualifiers. **Gareth Southgate** has praised his maturity and leadership, with pundits now tipping him as a future England defensive mainstay.
## Bayern Munich Smell Opportunity
While Liverpool were left frustrated, **Bayern Munich** began circling. The Bundesliga giants are masters of exploiting contract situations, and Guehi’s Palace deal runs out in **June 2026**.
That means by **January 2026**, he can sign a **pre-contract agreement** with clubs outside England—and Bayern are preparing to test Liverpool’s resolve. A **free transfer swoop** would be a major coup for the German champions, who are always on the hunt for defensive stability.
## Liverpool’s Fear
For Liverpool, it’s a nightmare scenario. After missing out on Guehi once, they may lose him forever unless they act fast. With defensive depth often tested by injuries, Guehi’s signing felt crucial to Slot’s rebuild.
Now, the Reds face the risk of watching one of England’s most reliable defenders swap the Premier League for the Allianz Arena—without paying Palace a single penny.
**Fan Takeaway:** Should Liverpool go back in with an aggressive January offer, or risk letting Bayern Munich snatch Guehi for free?
