Image Credits: Imago Images
Crystal Palace appear to be scrambling in the market to secure a potential Marc Guehi replacement in the final week of the summer transfer window.
Liverpool FC are keen on the Eagles captain, as DaveOCKOP.com revealed back in March already.
With Guehi’s contract at Crystal Palace expiring next summer, Liverpool believe they have a unique chance to secure the Chelsea academy graduate for a fee below market value.
Guehi’s homegrown status is another important factor for Liverpool, as it helps satisfy the Premier League’s squad registration rules.
And it looks like the South London club are doing their utmost to ensure they are prepared should their skipper depart.
Sky Sports have reported that Oliver Glasner’s side have made an approach for Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji:
“Crystal Palace have approached Manchester City about signing Manuel Akanji,” reports Kaveh Solhekol.
“Palace are looking for a centre-back in case Marc Guehi leaves in the next six days.”
He adds that Palace will sell to the Reds if the conditions are right:
“Guehi has a year left on his contract and Palace are prepared to sell him to Liverpool if the price is right.”
“City signed Akanji for £15m from Borussia Dortmund three years ago.”
“Galatasaray have also held initial talks about signing him”
The financial dynamics certainly favours Liverpool’s approach.
Chelsea’s 20% sell-on clause from Guehi’s 2021 move reduces Palace’s negotiating power, while the defender’s contract situation creates urgency for the Eagles to cash in now rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer.
Reports suggest the final fee could settle around £40 million, below Palace’s initial £45 million asking price.
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