Industry expert claims player ‘wants Liverpool’ | OneFootball

Liverpool Face Real Madrid Challenge Over Guehi and Szoboszlai Amid Keith Wyness Insight

Liverpool’s transfer plans are once again under scrutiny as Real Madrid prepare to rival them for two of Europe’s standout talents — Marc Guehi and Dominik Szoboszlai. With Keith Wyness offering fresh insight into the situation, both clubs could be set for a tense battle when the January window opens.

Guehi’s Preference Could Shape Transfer Race

Liverpool’s long-standing interest in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi has not faded, even after missing out on his signature during the summer. The 24-year-old remains high on Arne Slot’s radar as he looks to strengthen a defensive unit that has shown vulnerability in recent weeks.

Despite suffering an injury setback, Guehi’s composure, leadership and ball-playing quality have made him one of the most coveted English defenders in the Premier League. Keith Wyness, Everton’s former CEO and now a respected football consultant, revealed on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast that Guehi’s desire to join Liverpool remains clear — even as Real Madrid circle.

“From what I understand, he’d like to go to Liverpool,” Wyness said. “But there’ll be an auction for him. He’s going to be a sought-after player in January. Liverpool are telling him to moderate his demands — they’re not pulling out, they’re still interested. He’s a quality player, even though he’s injured at the moment.”

Those comments underscore the delicate nature of the negotiations. Real Madrid, who have monitored Guehi since his impressive performances for England, are reportedly preparing a bid of their own as they plan for long-term defensive reinforcements. Yet Liverpool’s persistence and the player’s personal preference could prove decisive.

Szoboszlai Emerges as Madrid’s Ambitious Target

While the Spanish giants chase Guehi, they are also showing growing interest in Liverpool’s Hungarian playmaker, Dominik Szoboszlai. The 25-year-old midfielder, who has quickly become one of Arne Slot’s most influential figures, has attracted attention across Europe for his creativity, pressing intelligence and set-piece ability.

Reports suggest Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso views Szoboszlai as a perfect fit for his dynamic system — a player capable of linking play between midfield and attack with technical precision and relentless energy. However, Liverpool are expected to reject any approaches.

Having already lost key figures in recent years, the club are determined to build around Szoboszlai, who has delivered consistently strong performances since his arrival. His combination of leadership and versatility has made him integral to Slot’s plans as Liverpool aim to recover from a stuttering start to their title defence.

Wyness Offers Cautionary Perspective

Keith Wyness, who has decades of experience working within elite football, believes both situations highlight the fine margins of modern recruitment. “When you’re dealing with clubs like Real Madrid and Liverpool, you’re operating at the very top level of competition — not just on the pitch but in the boardroom too,” Wyness explained.

His remarks reflect a broader truth about the transfer market’s current climate. Financial powerhouses like Madrid can unsettle even the most stable clubs, while Premier League sides must balance ambition with fiscal restraint under evolving regulations.

Strategic Stakes Rising for Slot’s Liverpool

For Arne Slot, the upcoming transfer window could define his early tenure at Anfield. Securing a defender of Guehi’s calibre would address defensive inconsistencies that have cost Liverpool valuable points, while keeping Szoboszlai away from Madrid’s reach would preserve a vital creative engine in midfield.

As the competition intensifies, Liverpool find themselves juggling ambition, financial control and player loyalty. Real Madrid’s shadow looms large — but the Merseyside club’s resolve remains firm. With Guehi eager for a move north and Szoboszlai thriving under Slot’s management, January promises to test Liverpool’s strategic mettle more than ever.