Liverpool in ‘direct talks’ to complete £40m signing | OneFootball

Liverpool Step Up Pursuit of Marc Guehi as Quansah Nears Exit

Liverpool’s summer evolution under Arne Slot continues to gather momentum, with reports suggesting the club is now in direct contact with England international Marc Guehi over a summer switch. As per a DaveOCKOP exclusive, positive discussions have taken place between Liverpool and the Crystal Palace defender’s camp, with a deal looking increasingly likely.

Quansah Departure Frees Up Defensive Reshuffle

Jarell Quansah, who enjoyed a breakthrough 2023/24 campaign at Anfield, is on the verge of sealing a move to Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen. The 22-year-old is expected to undergo his medical on Monday, in a transfer that could be worth up to £35 million.

Photo: IMAGO

Fresh from his success at the U21 European Championships alongside fellow Reds Harvey Elliott and Tyler Morton, Quansah’s exit marks the end of a promising yet brief chapter in red. While his departure may sting for fans hopeful of a long-term academy gem establishing himself, the club appears to have a succession plan in place — and Guehi is central to it.

Guehi Emerges as Prime Defensive Target

DaveOCKOP first reported in March that Liverpool had initiated talks with Guehi’s representatives, and developments since then have only accelerated. The 24-year-old centre-back, who has just one year remaining on his contract, has drawn plaudits for his consistent performances and leadership at the back for Crystal Palace.

“His strong performances and leadership at the back have made him an integral part of the team.”

Described as “one of the club’s greatest ever defenders” by the article, Guehi has also earned 23 England caps, further underlining his Premier League pedigree. It’s no surprise that other clubs — including Arsenal and Newcastle — have shown interest, but Liverpool appear to be in pole position.

Deal Edging Closer as Talks Intensify

With Quansah’s move all but sealed, Liverpool’s focus has clearly shifted to finalising Guehi’s arrival. Despite his expiring contract, Palace are expected to demand a significant fee. However, there is “growing confidence that a fee will be agreed with Palace for Guehi to join this summer, rather than on a free next summer.”

Encouragingly for Liverpool fans, personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block.

“Personal terms will not be an issue with Guehi, fully behind the move.”

The coming days could be decisive as Liverpool aim to secure the talented centre-back before pre-season kicks off in earnest.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this reported move for Marc Guehi feels like a smart and timely piece of business. With Quansah departing for a healthy fee, Guehi offers an immediate, Premier League-proven upgrade in defence.

While some fans might be disappointed to see a homegrown talent like Quansah move on — especially after glimpses of promise last season — the reality is that Liverpool must compete now. Guehi fits the profile: young but experienced, composed on the ball, and tactically intelligent. His 23 England caps at just 24 years of age speak volumes about his consistency and reliability.

There’s also something refreshing about the clarity of this potential deal. If, as reported, Guehi is “fully behind the move,” and personal terms pose no issue, then Liverpool’s hierarchy deserves credit for acting early and decisively — a trait that fans have long hoped to see return in transfer dealings.

Financially, this move could end up being another example of Liverpool’s savvy in the market. Spending on a top-tier centre-back, especially when recouping £35M from Quansah’s sale, shows strategic squad planning under the new sporting structure.

As ever, there are no guarantees, but Guehi’s arrival would not only strengthen the backline but also send a strong message: Liverpool aren’t standing still.