All the latest Liverpool transfer news as Arne Slot looks to bolster his backline this summer
Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and West Ham United FC at Selhurst Park on August 24, 2024
Marc Guehi during Crystal Palace's clash against West Ham(Image: Photo by Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Liverpool might have been handed a major boost in their bid to sign Marc Guehi. The Crystal Palace defender has been heavily linked with a move to Anfield this summer as Arne Slot looks to strengthen his backline.
Guehi, who has recently entered the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, featured 43 times in the Premier League last season, scoring three goals and providing two assists. He helped the Eagles keep 11 clean sheets and finish in 12th place.
The England international also captained Palace to FA Cup glory, defeating Manchester City 1-0 in the final at Wembley Stadium.
His impressive performances haven't gone unnoticed, attracting interest from some top clubs.
So, with that being said, we have rounded up everything you need to know about Guehi and a potential move to Liverpool.
Liverpool to play the waiting game
The ECHO understands that Liverpool are relaxed in the pursuit of a new centre-back. It's believed that a potential move for Guehi hinges on how flexible Palace are when it comes to their asking price.
In January, foreign clubs will be eligible to open pre-contract talks with the defender over a free transfer in the summer – unless he signs a new deal beforehand.
If Guehi doesn't pen an extension, the Eagles will be forced to make a tough decision.
Palace must weigh up whether they'd rather risk losing the Cobham graduate for free or cut their losses and cash in during the transfer window.
With time running out, Guehi could be available for a cut-price fee.
Crystal Palace 'find Guehi replacement'
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, as quoted by Sport Witness, Palace have found a potential replacement for Guehi.
The report claims that the Eagles are 'one step away' from signing Ousmane Diomande from Sporting CP.
It's said that the south Londoners are set to fork out £47m for the 21-year-old centre-back.
While Viktor Gyokeres has stolen the headlines in recent times, Diomande was integral to Sporting winning back-to-back Primeira Liga titles.
Chelsea 'to profit' from Liverpool transfer
According to The Mirror, Chelsea will be owed millions if Liverpool sign Guehi, who has a £70m price tag.
The report reckons that the Blues inserted a 20 per cent sell-on clause when they allowed the defender to join Palace for £18m in July 2021.
It's said that the Premier League champions are unlikely to meet the Eagles' asking price, with a £40m offer mooted as a 'more likely middle-ground'.
If Palace were to accept such an offer, Chelsea would reportedly be on to pocket £8m.