Liverpool’s Transfer U-Turn: FSG Backs Away from Guehi Pursuit, Eyes Free Move for Bayern’s Upamecano
In a development few saw coming, Liverpool’s ownership group, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), has made a notable shift in its transfer strategy. After weeks of speculation and what appeared to be genuine intent to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, the Reds have reportedly withdrawn from the race. Instead, the club is now focusing its attention on Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano — a powerful centre-back whose defensive prowess has earned him the nickname “The Steel Wall.”
This pivot comes as both players enter the final year of their respective contracts. While Guehi remains tied to Palace through 2026, Liverpool seems to be banking on the opportunity to land Upamecano on a free transfer next summer. Should they succeed, the deal could significantly reshape Liverpool’s backline heading into the 2026–27 season.
Reassessing the Backline: FSG’s Motivation Behind the Move
Liverpool’s need to reinforce their defense has been apparent for some time. Despite having four senior centre-backs — Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Joe Gomez, and the promising Giovanni Leoni — the club faces a host of uncertainties in this department.
Virgil van Dijk, while still a commanding presence, is now 34 and nearing the end of his elite playing years. Konaté’s future is uncertain, with his contract set to expire at the end of the current campaign. Joe Gomez, once a mainstay in the lineup, was reportedly close to being offloaded during the last transfer window. Giovanni Leoni, considered a rising star within the club, remains sidelined as he recovers from a serious knee injury.
All these factors contribute to an unstable defensive core that FSG seems eager to rebuild or at least stabilize ahead of the next season.
The Collapse of the Guehi Deal: What Went Wrong?
Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi was one of the headline stories of the summer transfer window. According to reports, a deal between Liverpool and Crystal Palace was all but finalized on deadline day. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Palace chairman Steve Parish pulled the plug at the last minute.
Speaking on talkSPORT after the window closed, Parish addressed the situation, saying:
“I decided in the end that, based on the advice that I got and with what I think, that we would have been making a mistake letting Marc go now.”
His comments suggest a strong belief in Guehi’s value — not just as a player but as a cornerstone of Palace’s short-term ambitions. For Liverpool, the failed deal was a significant setback, but not one without alternatives.
Why Upamecano?
By turning to Dayot Upamecano, Liverpool is targeting a defender with top-tier experience, physical dominance, and strong tactical awareness. The French international has played at the highest level with Bayern Munich and the national team, and at only 26 years old, he offers a blend of youth and experience that aligns well with Liverpool’s future plans.
What makes this move even more strategic is the potential for a free transfer. If Upamecano doesn’t sign a new contract with Bayern before June 2026, Liverpool could acquire him without paying a transfer fee — a savvy financial decision in today’s market.
Looking Ahead
This shift in transfer focus signals a broader recalibration of Liverpool’s squad planning. While missing out on Guehi was undoubtedly a disappointment, FSG’s willingness to adapt and target a player of Upamecano’s caliber could pay dividends in the long run.
With key defensive contracts expiring and aging players nearing the end of their tenure, Liverpool’s proactive approach may well define the next era of their defensive structure. Whether Upamecano will be the anchor of that new backline remains to be seen, but for now, it appears Liverpool are playing the long game — and playing it smart
