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The January transfer window often provides clubs with an opportunity to address glaring weaknesses or capitalize on contract situations that summer deals cannot facilitate.
For Liverpool, the winter window has typically been met with caution—a chance for minor adjustments rather than wholesale changes.
However, January 2026 could prove different regarding a Marc Guehi
The timing is critical for Liverpool.
Under FIFA regulations, Guehi is eligible to negotiate and sign a pre-contract agreement with non-English clubs starting January 1.
This puts European heavyweights like Real Madrid and Barcelona – who are reportedly keen on the England international – in the driver’s seat for a summer move.
However, Liverpool can bypass this risk by agreeing a transfer fee with Crystal Palace in January.
Now David Ornstein, reporting for the Athletic, has revealed that even if Liverpool make an offer to get Guehi early in winter – there is no guarantee that Crystal Palace will even be satisfied:
“A summer transfer to Liverpool collapsed on deadline day, but Marc Guehi is expected to depart Selhurst Park in 2026,” he wrote.
“Whether the Premier League champions will try again in January remains unclear but even if they or other suitors do, any proposal would need to satisfy Palace and Guehi — which is by no means guaranteed.”
“That is because of an amicable understanding between the south London club and their captain that he will see out the final months of his terms, attempt to lift another trophy and leave as a free agent at the end of the season.”
“Guehi can speak to foreign teams from January 1, while English sides must officially wait until the summer.”
The transfer journalist then added that a move to Anfield is not a mere formality:
“Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Manchester City are among his many admirers, while Real Madrid’s position may depend on the movement of other targets.”
“Any suggestion that switching to Anfield is a formality would be wide of the mark; the situation remains open, the competition fierce, and Guehi will listen to all interested parties before making his decision.”
“Although the 25-year-old England centre-back will have numerous destinations to choose from — and some not currently high in the pecking order could emerge as such, depending on how their seasons unfold — it is anticipated he will end up joining one of those who are expected to challenge for the Champions League trophy.”
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