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Real Madrid and Liverpool Monitor Marc Guéhi Contract Situation Ahead of Summer Window

Real Madrid have made initial enquiries into the contractual position of Marc Guéhi as they continue to map out options for central defence beyond the current season, with Liverpool also alert to developments around the Crystal Palace captain.

Guéhi, now 25, is entering the final months of his deal at Selhurst Park and is set to become eligible to negotiate with overseas clubs from 1 January. While no formal bid has been lodged, AS.com indicate that Madrid have communicated awareness of the player’s status and would be prepared to re-engage should they decide to prioritise the position in the summer.

Liverpool, meanwhile, remain attentive rather than active at this stage, monitoring how Guéhi’s situation evolves as they assess defensive planning under Arne Slot.

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Madrid Defensive Planning Shapes Interest

Madrid’s approach is deliberate. The club are reviewing several centre-back profiles ahead of the next window and are unwilling to enter competitive auctions or salary escalations that do not align with their structure. Guéhi’s appeal lies in both his profile and timing: a proven Premier League defender, England international, and potentially available without a transfer fee if no renewal is agreed.

Internal discussions have focused on waiting until later in the season before committing to a specific target, particularly given uncertainty around availability and squad needs. Guéhi has been made aware that Madrid are following his situation, though no guarantees or timelines have been set.

The Spanish club have also explored other high-level defensive options across Europe, but cost, wage demands and competition have complicated those routes. In that context, Guéhi represents a strategically attractive alternative.

Liverpool Position and Premier League Context

Liverpool’s interest is more measured but genuine. The club are assessing centre-back depth with an eye on durability, age profile and leadership, all of which Guéhi offers. However, there is no suggestion of immediate movement, with recruitment staff taking a broader view of the market before deciding whether to act.

Guéhi’s standing within the Premier League remains high. As Palace captain, he has been central to their defensive structure and leadership group, while his calm distribution and positional discipline have enhanced his reputation beyond pure defensive metrics.

Any Premier League-based move would require careful consideration around valuation and wages, particularly if multiple top clubs enter discussions once the summer approaches.

Contract Timeline and Negotiation Window

Under FIFA regulations, Guéhi is permitted to negotiate with non-English clubs from January, a factor that has sharpened interest from abroad. Palace are aware of the risk of losing a key asset for free and have explored renewal options, though no agreement has yet been reached.

A proposed Liverpool move would need to wait until later in the year unless Palace decide to sell earlier, whereas Madrid could move more decisively once direct negotiations are allowed. That dynamic places English clubs at a slight disadvantage in the short term.

Guéhi’s camp is understood to be open to listening to all options, with priority given to sporting project, role clarity and long-term stability rather than speed of decision-making.

Player Perspective and Next Steps

From the player’s standpoint, this is a defining phase. Guéhi is entering his prime years and is keen to ensure his next move aligns with elite-level competition and consistent involvement at the highest stage. Madrid’s long-standing pull is clear, but no decision will be rushed without clarity on squad plans and guarantees.

Liverpool, should they choose to accelerate interest, would present a compelling domestic option, particularly given their competitive trajectory and emphasis on tactical adaptability.

For now, Palace retain control until the contract situation changes. The coming months are expected to bring sharper definition, with Madrid and Liverpool both positioned to act if conditions align.