Liverpool will now need to be prepared to ward off interest from Manchester City for their defensive target, Marc Guehi. The two title rivals are prepared to lock horns in this transfer battle before the end of the window.
As reported by Essential Football before, the Reds were in a prime position to land the centre back. However, the latest developments in the transfer market might mark a sign of concern for Arne Slot and his negotiating teams.
The arrival of Manchester City in the transfer race could have numerous repercussions for Liverpool. Not only might the club have to fork out more money with the freshly ignited interest from Pep Guardiola, but they also run the risk of losing the player to a direct competition rival.
The latest transfer saga
Marc Guehi has entered the final 12 months of his contract at Selhurst Park. Liverpool have to hope for a few things to go their way if they wish to seal the deal in time for the September 1st transfer deadline.
The Reds lose their bargaining chip once the transfer deadline ends, and Crystal Palace might try to persuade their player to sign a contract extension. The new contract will significantly increase the asking price for Guehi.
However, Guehi will completely take charge of the situation if he does not sign a new contract and will thus be available as a free agent at the end of the season. Allowing other teams the luxury to negotiate on personal terms with him.
Who will Guehi pick?
Crystal Palace are at the moment treading on thin ice. They have the option to cash out on Guehi this summer or run the massive risk of losing him on a free transfer next summer. The player is optimistic about a move to Anfield.
However, the valuations put forward by Crystal Palace do not sound convincing to Liverpool, who are truly aware of the defender’s contract situation.
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Manchester City’s interest is not so straightforward either. The Citizens will only move ahead with a move for Guehi if Manchester City are able to offload two players from its roster – Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji who is linked with a move to Bournemouth as Guardiola looks to freshen his centre-back options.
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What has Oliver Glasner said?
Crystal Palace might feel undercooked heading into a massive season by losing one of their greatest defensive assets. Naturally, the media speculations have made the Selhurst Park gaffer slightly perplexed. Oliver Glasner speaking about the saga, has said according to Liverpool.com –
“I am worried about Crystal Palace if we are losing players and we don’t get the right ones in. It is my duty as manager to tell the owners what we have to do to be competitive and stay on our pathway.”
An interesting week awaits the football faithful as the transfer window draws to a close. Liverpool and Manchester City will both benefit greatly from the addition of a quality work-horse like Marc Guehi.