David Ornstein: Liverpool Bid £35m For Premier League Captain | OneFootball

Liverpool Make £35m Move for Marc Guehi

Liverpool’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements has taken a significant step, with David Ornstein of The Athletic reporting that the club have submitted an official £35million bid for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. The 25-year-old England international is into the final year of his contract and, crucially, has “no intention to extend those terms.”

Guehi’s Situation at Palace

Palace manager Oliver Glasner has made no secret of his desire to retain Guehi, especially so late in the window. “Palace boss Oliver Glasner has spoken of his wish to keep Guehi, especially at such a late stage in the market,” Ornstein notes. However, the Eagles risk losing him for free next summer should they resist offers.

Talks between the two clubs have remained “cordial,” reflecting a healthy relationship built over recent years. Still, Palace are already working on reinforcements in case Guehi departs.

Liverpool’s Defensive Needs

Arne Slot’s squad has been trimmed in defence following Jarell Quansah’s £35m move to Bayer Leverkusen. This leaves Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté as the only senior centre-backs, with the latter’s contract also entering its final year. With such uncertainty, the addition of Guehi – who has 155 Palace appearances and 23 England caps – would add depth and reliability to the backline.

Photo: IMAGO

Interest from Other Clubs

It is worth remembering that Newcastle United had multiple bids rejected for Guehi last summer, including one rising to £65m. That valuation highlights how Palace rate their captain, who last season led the club to their first major trophy with an FA Cup victory over Manchester City.

What Happens Next

Liverpool’s £35m straight-cash offer is significantly below previous approaches from Newcastle, though circumstances have changed with Guehi’s contract running down. Palace’s decision could hinge on whether they value immediate funds over the risk of losing him for free.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, the proposed signing of Marc Guehi makes perfect sense. After Quansah’s departure, supporters have been crying out for another top-quality centre-back to complement van Dijk and Konaté. Joe Gomez remains versatile but inconsistent, while Konaté’s injury record is well documented.

Guehi represents a defender entering his prime, with Premier League experience and international pedigree. His leadership qualities, evidenced by captaining Palace to FA Cup glory, fit perfectly with the character Liverpool look for in signings. Fans may also feel the £35m fee is a bargain given Newcastle’s rejected £65m bid only a year ago.

At the same time, there is recognition that Palace may dig in their heels. Glasner’s comments show reluctance to part ways, particularly so close to the window’s end. Yet Guehi’s refusal to extend his contract could push the London club’s hand. Liverpool’s cordial relationship with Palace may work in their favour, and supporters will hope this respectful approach pays off.

The timing of the bid also signals intent from the new Arne Slot regime. After strengthening in attack and midfield earlier in the window, this move feels like the final piece of squad balance.