Crystal Palace are bracing themselves for a formal bid from Liverpool for Marc Guehi, as they continue negotiations with Sporting CP over a potential deal for his replacement, Ousmane Diomande. With Guehi nearing the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, the Eagles are prepared to cash in on their FA Cup hero to avoid losing him on a free transfer in 2026.
Liverpool aren't the only club interested in the 24-year-old, but Arne Slot's Premier League champions are now emerging as clear favourites to secure Guehi's services. Meanwhile, Palace are also ramping up their pursuit of Ivory Coast international Diomande.
The sought-after 21-year-old reportedly has a £68million release clause in his Sporting contract. While Palace aren't ready to meet that figure, they're willing to break their club-record to bring the talented centre-back to Selhurst Park.
Progress has already been made on personal terms, with Diomande open to the move and Palace maintaining good relations with player's agency ROOF, who also represent left wing-back Tyrick Mitchell.
The Mirror claim that Oliver Glasner has personally approved a swoop for Diomande, confident in his potential and versatility within the Austrian's three-man defensive line.
Newcastle United, long-time admirers of Guehi, are also keen on Diomande, as are Manchester United. However, Crystal Palace seem to be leading the race after intensifying their interest in the last 48 hours.
Negotiations are ongoing, but a significant difference in valuation between the clubs needs to be resolved before any deal can be finalised.
Selling Guehi would certainly boost Palace's transfer budget, although Liverpool have indicated they're willing to wait a year to sign him on a free transfer if necessary.
The England international has also attracted attention from Arsenal and his former club Chelsea. However, Liverpool appear ready to step up their pursuit of Guehi, especially with Jarrell Quansah nearing a £35m move to Bayer Leverkusen.
The deal for the England U21 star is almost complete and is expected to involve an initial fee of £30m plus £5m in add-ons.
Liverpool manager Erik ten Hag has been eager to strengthen his defence and had previously considered Bournemouth's rising star Dean Huijsen before the Spaniard chose to join Real Madrid in a £50m deal. Interest in Ajax's Jorrel Hato is still active, particularly with Andy Robertson attracting strong interest from Atletico Madrid.
Hato, who is also on Chelsea and Arsenal's radar, can play either at centre-back or left-back.
Ibrahima Konate is approaching the final year of his contract at Anfield, and despite anticipated negotiations for a renewal, there's a strong possibility he could see out his current deal amidst interest from Real Madrid.
Liverpool are on track to confirm the signing of Florian Wirtz for a record-breaking £116.5m, with the player currently in the North West undergoing medical examinations, and Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez is expected to join him soon.