Liverpool are looking to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi this summer but a deal still appears to be some way off
Liverpool manager Arne Slot laughs
Liverpool boss Arne Slot will be hoping to have Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi in his ranks next season
(Image: PA)
Liverpool are reportedly facing an impasse in their pursuit of Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi. The Reds are looking to sign the England centre-back as Arne Slot and his team gear up for their Premier League title defence.
Sporting director Richard Hughes has already been busy securing four new signings this summer, with the possibility of more to follow. Guehi is set to enter the last year of his contract at Palace and donned the captain's armband last season, leading the club to FA Cup glory.
Consequently, the former Chelsea defender has been strongly linked with Newcastle United as well as the Reds.
But talkSPORT's chief football correspondent Alex Crook has provided an update, which demonstrates that a potential deal is some way off. He claims that Liverpool will only advance with a move for Guehi if Palace's valuation drops significantly from £45million.
What may affect the 24-year-old's future at Palace is the upcoming announcement that is expected from UEFA. The governing body is expected to announce its decision imminently on whether or not Palace will be able to compete in the Europa League next season.
Palace qualified for the competition thanks to their victory over Manchester City in last season's FA Cup final. However, a UEFA hearing will take place this week to determine if Palace have broken any rules relating to multi-club ownership.
John Textor had a 43% stake at Palace until a deal was agreed with Woody Johnson, owner of NFL franchise the New York Jets, earlier this week. Textor also has an ownership stake in Ligue 1 outfit Lyon, who will also be in next season's Europa League.
Textor's ownership stake in both Palace and Lyon has led to a UEFA hearing taking place to determine if the Eagles will be able to participate in next season's Europa League. UEFA rules state that clubs which have the same owner cannot compete in the same European competition.
If Palace are deemed to have breached UEFA rules and can no longer participate in the Europa League, it could affect their stance on Guehi's future.
It could also impact Guehi's desire to stay at Selhurst Park, especially if the potential to play Champions League football at Liverpool is on the cards.