Liverpool’s transfer window has been frantic, and the final days are shaping up to be even more decisive. With their Premier League opener against Bournemouth just hours away, attention has turned back to a long-running saga: Marc Guehi.
The Reds already look set to complete the signing of Giovanni Leoni from Parma, with the defender in England for his medical. But Liverpool were never planning to stop there. With Jarell Quansah sold to Bayer Leverkusen and Ibrahima Konaté’s contract situation still uncertain, centre-back depth is a pressing concern.
That’s where Guehi comes in. The Crystal Palace defender has been one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers—strong in duels, composed on the ball, and tactically sharp. Liverpool have admired him for months, but price has been the stumbling block.
Palace want £45m–£50m. Liverpool are closer to £35m–£40m. That gap stalled talks… until now.
A recent Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling ended Palace’s hopes of European football next season. Without Europa League or Champions League revenue, Palace’s financial leverage is gone. Guehi’s contract runs out next summer, so if they don’t sell now, they risk losing him for free.
For the player, the move makes perfect sense. Guehi wants to play European football, challenge for trophies, and test himself at the very top—Liverpool can offer all of that. His skillset would fit perfectly alongside Van Dijk and Konaté, while also providing versatility in multiple defensive roles.
Timing is everything. Slot needs reinforcements quickly, with a long season ahead and injuries already beginning to bite. Liverpool’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes, is pushing to close the deal fast, confident that Palace’s weakened position and Guehi’s desire to move will swing things in their favour.
If Liverpool can add both Leoni and Guehi before the window closes, it would be a massive statement of intent—backing Arne Slot and silencing critics after their Community Shield loss.
Right now, Guehi is still training with Palace. But if the valuation gap narrows, a transfer could be wrapped up within days.
This isn’t just about signing another defender. It’s about Liverpool’s ambition, their negotiating power, and possibly even the outcome of this season’s title race.
