Real Madrid pushing to hijack Liverpool’s move for Premier League star | OneFootball

Real Madrid Attempt Power Move In Race For Marc Guehi

The scramble for elite defenders, particularly those nearing contract expiry, has become a strategic battleground across Europe. With financial prudence now shaping recruitment at top clubs, opportunities like this come along rarely. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, approaching free agency, has drawn heavyweight interest from Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Barcelona. The situation blends tactical necessity with the allure of a low cost, high calibre signing.

Palace have long anticipated this moment. Their England international centre back has matured into one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders, combining composure in possession with sound positioning and leadership. Now, as his deal runs down, the continent’s biggest clubs are positioning themselves for advantage.

Real Madrid Step On The Accelerator

Spain’s biggest institution appear to be making the first decisive move. As reported by SPORT, Real Madrid view Guehi as a long term foundation piece in defence, particularly with David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger nearing the end of their contracts. The strategy is clear, aggressive and familiar, using star power and prestige to shape a future spine.

Los Blancos reportedly plan to lean on Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold in their pitch to Guehi. The same report states:

“Bellingham is said to have played a key role in bringing Alexander-Arnold to Madrid earlier this year, and the club hopes a similar approach will work with Guehi.”

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool Maintain Interest Amid Squad Evolution

Liverpool’s interest predates this current escalation. The Reds, rejuvenated under Arne Slot and Premier League champions in his first campaign, remain keen to reinforce defensively. Last summer brought frustration when they could not conclude a deal, and this January window is expected to see renewed contact.

That ambition is rooted in clear footballing logic. Liverpool are not rebuilding from weakness, but refining a title winning group to ensure longevity at the top. Guehi fits the profile, a Premier League proven central defender with leadership qualities and high ceiling potential.

SPORT further note that Bayern Munich have already held talks with the player’s representatives, reflecting the scale of competition. Meanwhile, Barcelona lurk, ready to strike if the race slows.

Player Patience Could Shape Outcome

This saga may hinge on timing. As relayed in the report, Guehi appears comfortable waiting until summer, hoping to maximise interest and secure favourable personal terms, including salary and signing bonus. It is a modern transfer reality, and one which could yet shift the dynamics again.

For now, Madrid have made the loudest noise, Liverpool remain firmly interested, Bayern are active and Barcelona watch from a distance. A compelling battle lies ahead and it could influence defensive structures at elite clubs for years.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, this situation feels familiar but far from hopeless. Marc Guehi would be a near perfect fit for a side intent on staying at the summit, strong in duels, intelligent in build up and adaptable across defensive shapes. The presence of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate in the squad does not negate the need for another long term pillar, particularly with squad evolution a key strategy under Slot.

Real Madrid casting such a large shadow is predictable. Their glamour and the influence of Jude Bellingham is undeniable and the possible role of Trent Alexander-Arnold in this context stings a little more for Liverpool supporters. Yet Liverpool have their own compelling sales pitch, stability, structure, Premier League familiarity and a coaching group that has already demonstrated its ability to improve players.

If the player waits until the summer, as suggested, Liverpool remain strongly in the race. Champions often act decisively and this club has learned from close misses in the past. The hope among supporters is simple, strike with conviction, show the project is alive, and make Anfield the destination for another top defender. Madrid may talk loudly, but Liverpool can still act with purpose and win this battle.