Liverpool Renew Push for Defensive Reinforcement
Liverpool have reignited their pursuit of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, aiming to secure the 25-year-old defender’s services in January, according to TeamTalk. Guehi, who is in the final months of his contract, becomes eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs from January 1. This looming situation has intensified the urgency at Anfield, particularly as Real Madrid has expressed long-standing interest in the player. The Spanish giants are actively exploring the possibility of securing Guehi on a free transfer next summer. Liverpool, however, are determined not to let this opportunity slip away, especially given the defensive concerns that have plagued the team.
Contract Timeline Frames Strategy
The contract situation is a key factor driving Liverpool’s renewed interest. Guehi’s current deal with Crystal Palace expires in June, and he is yet to sign an extension. Real Madrid’s interest has catalyzed Liverpool’s actions, pushing them to reopen direct talks with Guehi’s representatives. Last summer’s negotiations had fallen through at the last minute, but with Virgil van Dijk approaching the latter stages of his career and Ibrahima Konate’s form and future in doubt, Arne Slot, Liverpool’s head coach, has identified Guehi as a priority target to future-proof the defense. The club is now more optimistic about Palace’s stance, believing it to be more flexible compared to the previous summer when a deal valued at up to £35 million with add-ons collapsed.
Cut Price Offer Takes Shape
Sources indicate that Liverpool is willing to offer between £25-30 million for Guehi, a figure significantly lower than the £70 million valuation Palace had previously quoted. This reduced offer is seen as a strategic move to secure the defender now rather than facing the risk of a free transfer exit in seven months. Guehi himself is reportedly open to the move, having agreed to terms with Liverpool in the summer. He has rejected two contract offers from Palace and is attracted to the prospect of playing in the Champions League and having a central role under Slot’s management. This alignment of interests makes the deal more feasible and appealing for both parties.
Race Tightens for January Decision
While Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also monitoring the situation, Liverpool’s direct engagement, including dialogue with Guehi’s agents, has positioned them at the forefront of the race. With less than four weeks until the January transfer window opens, the next fortnight is expected to be crucial. Crystal Palace, anticipating Guehi’s potential departure, are already planning contingencies. They have identified Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande as their primary target to replace Guehi, with sources indicating that Palace are preparing a club-record bid worth at least €50 million (£44 million). However, Chelsea’s interest in Diomande could complicate matters for Palace.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
This move for Guehi feels both calculated and necessary. The need for defensive reinforcement has been evident since last season, and the current concerns about Van Dijk’s age and Konate’s form and future make succession planning an urgent priority. The reported £25-30 million offer seems both opportunistic and shrewd, leveraging the contract clock to secure a valuable asset without succumbing to inflated valuations. Fans will be encouraged by the news that Guehi is open to the move, as his mentality and leadership qualities would be a significant asset to a Liverpool team that values such attributes highly. Adding a Champions League-caliber, England international defender in his prime aligns perfectly with the club’s recruitment model, which emphasizes durability, tactical adaptability, and resale security.
Conclusion
However, the near miss of last summer has left Liverpool supporters wary of a repeat scenario. The fact that Crystal Palace is already exploring replacements for Guehi, particularly with their interest in Diomande, signals that contingency plans are in place. Liverpool’s next steps in the coming weeks must be decisive rather than prolonged. Allowing Real Madrid to secure Guehi on a free transfer would be a significant setback. Ultimately, fans want to see ambition matched with execution. Concluding this deal in January would demonstrate clear planning, decisive negotiation, and strong backing for Slot’s evolving project at a crucial juncture.
