Liverpool have reopened direct discussions with Marc Guehi’s representatives in an attempt to move ahead of European rivals and secure a January deal for the Crystal Palace captain, according to TeamTalk. The 25 year old enters the final months of his contract in June and is eligible to sign a pre contract agreement with overseas clubs from January 1, a situation that has sharpened urgency at Anfield.
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“Real Madrid have made no secret of their long-standing admiration and are actively exploring the possibility of securing Guehi on a free transfer next summer.” That looming threat has encouraged Liverpool to reignite talks after last summer’s negotiations failed close to the line. With Virgil van Dijk heading towards the latter stage of his career and doubts around Ibrahima Konate’s form and future persisting, Arne Slot has identified Guehi as his “priority defensive target to future-proof the back line.”
Liverpool believe Palace’s stance is more flexible than it was months ago. “Liverpool believe Palace’s resolve has softened since the summer, when a deal worth up to £35million with add-ons collapsed at the eleventh hour.” The context has shifted, with Palace’s mid table status and the need to support Oliver Glasner’s rebuild influencing their approach.
Cut Price Offer Takes Shape
“Sources indicate the Reds are willing to offer between £25-30m next month”, a figure clearly lower than the £70m valuation previously quoted, but potentially enough to give Palace cash now rather than facing a free transfer exit in seven months. The defender himself “is understood to be open to the move after agreeing terms in the summer”, rejecting two Palace contract offers and viewing Champions League football and a central role under Slot as key attractions.
Race Tightens for January Decision
While “Barcelona and Atletico Madrid continue to monitor developments”, TeamTalk notes that Liverpool’s renewed engagement, “including direct dialogue with Guehi’s agents”, has positioned them firmly out front. “With less than four weeks until the window opens, the next fortnight is expected to be decisive.” Palace are already planning contingencies. “We revealed on November 20 that Palace have identified Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande as their primary target to replace Guehi.” “Sources indicate Palace are drawing up a club-record bid worth at least €50m (£44m) for the Ivorian defender”, although Chelsea may yet complicate the equation.
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This move feels as calculated as it is necessary. Defensive reinforcement has been flagged since last season, and the combination of Van Dijk’s advancing years and Konate’s recent struggles means succession planning cannot wait. The reported £25-30m offer seems opportunistic, but smart, leveraging the contract clock rather than recklessly chasing inflated valuations.
Fans will be encouraged by the line that Guehi “is understood to be open to the move”. Mentality matters, particularly when stepping into a dressing room built on leadership standards. The idea of adding a Champions League calibre, England international defender entering his prime fits the club’s recruitment model perfectly, durability, tactical adaptability, and resale security.
Yet supporters are wary of last summer’s near miss repeating itself. Palace’s pursuit of Diomande is a clear signal that contingency discussions are already underway, so Liverpool’s next fortnight must be decisive rather than protracted. Allowing Real Madrid to strike on a free would be a painful missed opportunity.
Ultimately, fans want ambition matched with execution. If Liverpool believe Guehi is the long term successor profile, then concluding this deal in January would show clarity of planning, decisive negotiation, and strong backing for Slot’s evolving project at a crucial moment.