Journalist: Liverpool are ‘in the lead’ to sign world-class England star | OneFootball

Liverpool Lead the Race for Marc Guehi as Bayern Acknowledge Transfer Reality

Guehi’s Future Takes Centre Stage in Transfer Planning

Liverpool’s long running interest in Marc Guehi has resurfaced with renewed momentum, and this time there is a growing belief that the defender is finally within reach. The club missed out on him last summer after submitting a £35 million bid, a proposal Crystal Palace rejected due to their lack of ready replacements. That moment forced Liverpool to enter the season with reduced centre back depth, a decision that has shaped their defensive struggles throughout the campaign.

Now, with Guehi out of contract in 2026 and emerging as one of the most sought after defenders in Europe, Liverpool are firmly in the conversation again. According to Bayern insider Christian Falk, this is an increasingly favourable position. As he reported, “Bayern know that Liverpool are in the lead in the race for Marc Guehi.”

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Bayern’s Position and Guehi’s Preference

Christian Falk offered further insight into the dynamics behind the pursuit. “Yes, there was an agreement in the summer, and the Crystal Palace star would like to play for Liverpool,” he stated, confirming not only prior negotiations but also Guehi’s personal preference. This is a significant development in a market that is often driven by player direction as much as club ambition.

He added, “FC Bayern did make efforts to try and get Guehi in the market. In his agency, there’s one agent who is working for the German market, and, of course, Bayern had a contact.” The German champions explored their options, and their interest was genuine. Yet their internal view has now shifted. “However, the signs indicate that the Englishman is heading in the direction of Liverpool. There’s still some hope, there’s still a chance, but they know it’s getting hard.”

Such candid recognition from within Bayern suggests that Liverpool’s persistence has positioned them as the frontrunners for one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders.

Liverpool’s Long Term Planning Comes into Focus

Liverpool’s recruitment strategy since their Premier League title win in 2024 to 2025 has been ambitious and expensive, but it has not been without gaps. The failure to secure Guehi left a visible hole at the heart of the defence, one that became more pronounced as injuries and inconsistency disrupted Arne Slot’s second season.

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Guehi represents more than a defensive reinforcement. He brings leadership, composure, tactical awareness and an ability to anchor both possession phases and defensive transitions. For a team looking to restore balance, solidity and structure, he fits the profile perfectly. The fact that he “would like to play for Liverpool” strengthens the feeling that this is a move aligned with both need and identity.

Encouraging Signs for Liverpool’s Transfer Prospects

What matters most now is timing. With top clubs circling, Liverpool needed reassurance that last summer’s disappointment would not cost them the player entirely. Falk’s report provides exactly that. Liverpool remain a leading destination in Guehi’s eyes, and despite interest from Bayern, Real Madrid and Inter, the path appears clearer than many feared.

If Liverpool can complete the deal, it would be one of the most important strategic signings of the upcoming window.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Many Liverpool supporters will be encouraged by the latest developments. Centre back has been a glaring problem for much of the season, and the absence of a commanding partner for Virgil van Dijk or Ibrahima Konate has destabilised the defensive line. Guehi offers a blend of reliability and authority that supporters feel has been missing.

Fans will also appreciate the clarity that Guehi “would like to play for Liverpool.” That matters. Too often, elite players weigh multiple options and leave clubs waiting for definitive signals. Here, the intention seems clear, and that gives supporters confidence that the transfer is achievable.

There is also a sense that Guehi fits Liverpool’s next phase perfectly. Slot’s system requires defenders who are comfortable stepping into midfield, controlling transitions and managing space with intelligence. Guehi excels in these areas. He is also approaching his prime years, which gives Liverpool a long term pillar in a position that demands continuity.

While interest from Bayern, Real Madrid and Inter underscores the scale of the competition, Liverpool appear well positioned. Fans will hope that lessons from the failed move last summer have been learned and that the club completes what feels like a cornerstone signing.