Liverpool’s long-standing interest in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi could resurface in January, with reports suggesting a cut-price deal may be possible despite the Reds’ preference to wait until the summer.
Talks over a move began as far back as August, shortly after the Community Shield, when informal discussions saw Liverpool float a £30 million proposal.
By the end of the window, that figure had risen to £35m plus a 10% sell-on clause, and Guehi was even given permission to undergo medical checks.
Despite a deal sheet being signed to extend negotiations, Palace ultimately blocked the transfer.
Why Liverpool backed off in January
After the failed summer pursuit, Liverpool’s recruitment team shifted their stance, deciding against another approach in the winter market.
The belief was that Guehi, whose contract runs until 2026, would favour a free transfer in the summer, with Liverpool confident of being his destination of choice.
That plan, however, could be tested after fresh reports emerged from Spain suggesting Palace might now sanction a January sale.
Palace’s new stance
According to Fichajes, the Eagles could be willing to part with their captain for just €20m (£17m) in January — a remarkable drop from the fee Liverpool offered only weeks earlier.
The rationale would be to avoid losing him without a significant financial return, as his contract situation continues to hang over Selhurst Park.
Competition for Marc Guehi signature
The potential availability of Guehi at such a low fee is likely to spark a transfer battle. Barcelona and Real Madrid are also reported admirers, and his profile as a 24-year-old England international makes him an appealing option for Europe’s elite.
What this means for Liverpool
For Liverpool, the decision becomes tactical. Move now and secure Guehi at a fraction of the summer’s asking price, or wait until the end of the season and trust their confidence that the player sees Anfield as his next home.
Given Liverpool’s defensive rebuild under Arne Slot and the need to find a long-term partner for Virgil van Dijk, Guehi could be seen as a priority signing — but the club’s reluctance to be drawn into mid-season spending could see rivals swoop in.
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