Liverpool’s hopes of signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace in the summer 2025 transfer window have ended in disappointment. Despite weeks of negotiations, the two clubs failed to reach an agreement, leaving manager Arne Slot without the defensive reinforcement he had been pushing for.
Crystal Palace Stand Firm
Crystal Palace refused to part ways with their star defender even though Guehi has only one year left on his current contract. Liverpool submitted an official bid believed to be worth £35 million, but the South London club immediately rejected the offer, insisting that Guehi remains untouchable.
For Liverpool, this setback means Arne Slot must rely once again on his existing center-back options — Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Joe Gomez, and Jarell Quansah Leoni. While this defensive group has shown quality, there are lingering concerns. Both Konaté and Gomez have struggled with injury problems in recent seasons, raising doubts about the squad’s stability over a long campaign.
Should injuries strike again, Liverpool might be forced to revisit the transfer market sooner than expected. For now, however, the club has chosen to close the summer window without bringing in additional cover in central defense.
A Waiting Game: Guehi’s Contract Expires in 2026
Instead of paying over the odds in January, Liverpool are preparing a more calculated strategy. According to The Times, the Merseyside club are willing to wait until Guehi’s contract with Crystal Palace expires in the summer of 2026.
This approach could allow The Reds to secure the England international on a free transfer, avoiding a hefty transfer fee and giving them more financial flexibility to strengthen other areas of the squad over the next two windows.
However, this plan comes with its own risks. Two years is a long time in football, and plenty could change regarding Guehi’s situation before 2026. Palace could still convince him to extend his deal, or other clubs could swoop in with more attractive offers.
Competition from Europe’s Giants
Liverpool’s plan to wait patiently may face serious challenges from Europe’s elite. Reports suggest Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich are all closely monitoring Guehi’s situation.
These clubs not only have the financial muscle but also the prestige and long-term sporting projects that could appeal to the defender. If Guehi continues to deliver consistent performances for Palace, the battle for his signature could become one of the most competitive transfer sagas in Europe.
Moreover, the demand for top-quality central defenders remains extremely high across the continent. With his composure, aerial ability, and leadership at the back, Guehi is seen as an ideal fit for several top clubs looking to solidify their defenses.
What It Means for Liverpool
For now, Liverpool will head into the 2025/26 season with the squad they have, hoping injuries don’t derail their campaign. Arne Slot’s defensive unit will need to remain fit and reliable if the club is to challenge on multiple fronts.
Still, the pursuit of Marc Guehi highlights Liverpool’s long-term transfer vision. By refusing to overspend and waiting for the right opportunity, the club is balancing financial prudence with squad-building ambitions.
Whether this strategy pays off will depend on how the next 18 months unfold — but one thing is clear: Guehi’s future will remain a hot topic in the transfer rumor mill.
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