Report: Liverpool step up interest in Premier League defender ahead of move | OneFootball

Guehi Transfer Gains Momentum as Reds Seek Defensive Clarity

Liverpool are considering a move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi as they look to reinforce their back line ahead of a demanding 2025/26 season. With Champions League football returning to Anfield and a new managerial era under Arne Slot underway, attention has turned to recruitment in key areas—centre-back among them.

Guehi, 24, is understood to be a prominent name on Liverpool’s shortlist. Sources indicate that the player is open to a move should the clubs agree a deal, with contract talks at Palace reportedly stagnant. While no formal bid has been submitted at this stage, according to Red Men TV, discussions are believed to have taken place internally at Liverpool, and exploratory contact is not being ruled out in the coming weeks.

The England international has just 12 months remaining on his current contract at Selhurst Park, and while Palace would ideally like to retain him, their established transfer model favours maximising value before players reach free agency.

Guehi’s Rise and Why Liverpool Are Interested

Since joining Crystal Palace from Chelsea in 2021, Guehi has developed into one of the Premier League’s most dependable central defenders. Comfortable in and out of possession, composed under pressure, and a strong leader despite his age, the defender has consistently impressed at domestic and international level.

“His confidence in defending is standout,” said one academy coach with Championship experience who has tracked Guehi’s development. “He rarely gets flustered under pressure and figures out solutions quickly. He plays older than he is.”

While not the tallest of centre-backs—standing at around six feet—Guehi’s timing, positioning and ability in 1v1 duels have helped mask any aerial shortcomings. However, Liverpool analysts are known to place significant value on aerial duel metrics. Data from last season shows Guehi’s aerial duel win rate at just 45%, notably lower than Virgil van Dijk or Ibrahima Konaté.

“It’s the one weakness in his game,” the coach added. “He doesn’t get exposed often, but it’s something clubs have to factor in. That said, football’s changed. Teams don’t cross as much as they used to.”

Crystal Palace Prepared to Do Business

Crystal Palace are understood to be open to a sale this summer, with a fee in the region of £35–40 million thought to be acceptable. Sources close to the club have indicated that there is little expectation of Guehi signing a new contract, with player and representatives open to new challenges.

“Our model is clear,” one source said. “Buy young, develop, sell well. Letting him leave for free next year doesn’t make business sense, especially given what he’s worth to the squad right now.”

Liverpool, known for their disciplined approach to valuation, are not expected to meet Palace’s asking price without negotiation. However, with interest from other Premier League sides limited at present, there is belief that a compromise could be reached—particularly with the World Cup approaching and Guehi aiming to stay in Gareth Southgate’s plans.

Photo: IMAGO

Suitability to Liverpool’s System

Though predominantly deployed on the left of Palace’s defence, Guehi is naturally right-footed and could fill in on either side of a central pairing. Liverpool view this adaptability as a major asset, especially with Konaté’s injury record and Van Dijk’s minutes likely to be managed more carefully next season.

“He’s only played left centre-back because that’s where Palace needed him,” said the academy source. “He’s actually right-footed and more than comfortable playing on the right. The only difference is the angle of the duels, but he’d adapt quickly.”

Internally, there is belief that Guehi could initially provide competition and cover, but grow into a long-term starter—and even a leadership figure—at Anfield. His experience captaining Palace and representing England at tournament level have not gone unnoticed.

“He’s already been England’s most consistent centre-back over the last year,” the source continued. “Give him the platform of Champions League football and he could easily become one of Liverpool’s core players for the next decade.”

What Happens Next

While Liverpool continue to assess their options in the market, Guehi’s situation offers a potentially smart piece of business. At 24, with Premier League experience and room to develop, he fits the club’s medium and long-term vision. Palace, meanwhile, are braced for movement and would prefer to reinvest any fee this summer rather than risk losing him for free.

As it stands, Liverpool are in a strong position should they decide to act. With the transfer window gathering pace, Guehi’s name is one that may continue to surface in conversations around Anfield—and if terms can be agreed, a move may well materialise before the end of the window.