Liverpool ‘Leading the Race’ to Sign £65m Premier League Star This Summer – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Leading the Race for Crystal Palace Star Marc Guehi in £65m Summer Move

Liverpool are reportedly in pole position to secure the signature of Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi this summer, with Arne Slot’s new-look backline potentially welcoming a major addition ahead of the 2025/26 season.

According to an exclusive from TEAMtalk, the Reds are currently “favourites” to sign the composed and commanding centre-back, with Premier League rivals Newcastle United also circling. It’s a developing story that will pique the interest of Liverpool fans, especially given Guehi’s rise to prominence in both the domestic and international game.

Guehi’s Rise to Premier League Recognition

Since his move from Chelsea to Crystal Palace in 2021, Marc Guehi has evolved from an academy prospect into one of the most assured central defenders in the top flight. Still just 24, the England international has already amassed 146 appearances for Palace, scoring eight goals and adding four assists — impressive numbers for a centre-half.

Photo IMAGO

His leadership and reading of the game have not gone unnoticed. During Euro 2024, where Guehi was a steady presence in Gareth Southgate’s squad, fellow defender Ezri Konsa paid him the ultimate compliment: “He is so mature for his age and he strolls around like an uncle. We have been really impressed by his performances. They have been outstanding.”

That level of maturity and composure is exactly what top clubs crave, and Liverpool’s interest is now intensifying as they begin shaping the post-Klopp era under Dutch manager Arne Slot.

Slot’s Defensive Blueprint Taking Shape

Replacing Jürgen Klopp was never going to be easy, but Arne Slot’s tactical blueprint is starting to take form — and a high-calibre centre-back appears to be central to it.

Fraser Fletcher of TEAMtalk revealed that “Liverpool are keen on a summer deal for Guehi”, and new information from TBR Football suggests that the Merseyside giants are “firm contenders” to land the former Chelsea man.

While Liverpool already boast talents such as Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, concerns over injuries and long-term succession planning mean a move for Guehi would be a strategic investment — not just a short-term fix.

At 24, he offers a blend of experience and longevity that fits the club’s recruitment profile, especially under Slot, who is known to favour ball-playing centre-backs who can step confidently into midfield when needed.

Competition from Premier League Rivals

Liverpool are not alone in their admiration of Guehi. Newcastle United are also reportedly monitoring the defender’s situation, with TEAMtalk sources indicating the price tag could be in the region of £65 million.

Despite this steep valuation, the competition from Newcastle may not derail Liverpool’s pursuit, especially given their ability to offer Champions League football and a clear project under Slot.

The fact that Crystal Palace are already eyeing replacements — “Maxime Esteve and Rav van den Berg”, per TBR Football — hints at their acceptance that Guehi’s departure may be inevitable this summer.

Why Guehi Fits the Anfield Mould

Guehi’s style of play could be the perfect antidote to Liverpool’s occasional defensive lapses. He’s aerially dominant, positionally intelligent, and calm under pressure — qualities Liverpool have historically prized in central defenders, dating back to the days of Sami Hyypiä and Jamie Carragher.

Photo: IMAGO

But unlike defenders of past generations, Guehi is also comfortable in possession. His ability to play out from the back, carry the ball forward and contribute to transitions aligns with the modern game and Slot’s tactical evolution of Liverpool’s high press and positional rotations.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the prospect of adding Marc Guehi to the squad feels both exciting and pragmatic. At 24, he’s entering his prime and already boasts international experience. He doesn’t just tick boxes — he reinforces key areas of concern. With Virgil van Dijk not getting any younger and injury concerns around Konaté and Matip, a £65m move might seem steep, but it’s a price that could pay off for years to come.

More importantly, Guehi brings a sense of calm that Liverpool have lacked at times in the past few seasons — particularly when their defensive unit has been stretched due to injuries or tactical shifts. While fans would rightly want to see how he handles the pressure of a club like Liverpool, everything about his rise suggests he’s ready for the leap.

There’s also the Slot factor. Guehi fits the tactical profile — comfortable on the ball, reads the game well, and rarely looks rattled. Slot’s teams traditionally rely on centre-backs who initiate build-up play, and Guehi would slot — no pun intended — naturally into that setup.

If this deal comes off, it could be one of the smartest early signings of the Slot era.