Journalist rules out potential Liverpool move for Premier League star | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Defensive Dilemma: Patience Over Panic in Guehi Pursuit

Liverpool’s title-winning start under Arne Slot has not erased the lingering concern around depth in defence. Giovanni Leoni’s ACL injury has reduced the club’s centre-back options to three senior players, and with Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation still unresolved, the January window looms large. Yet, as journalist David Lynch told Dave Davis for Anfield Index, Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi remains one to watch carefully rather than chase urgently.

Interest in Guehi Remains, But Timing Matters

Liverpool came close to landing the Crystal Palace captain in the final hours of deadline day, agreeing a £35m deal before Palace pulled out late on. While the Reds’ need for defensive reinforcement has only grown since, Lynch made clear that any January revival of the move would depend on price and practicality.

“It’s all about what the amount of money that Crystal Palace would want is.”

Palace’s valuation will again be the sticking point. Guehi, who has matured into one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders, has seen his stock rise further with consistent form for club and country. Yet, Lynch’s insight suggests Liverpool will be reluctant to overpay, particularly with financial fair play limits and other squad priorities in play.

Financial and Football Logic Align

From a strategic standpoint, Lynch argued that Liverpool have little to gain by rushing a deal that could be completed for free in the summer.

“But also why would Liverpool go to £20m for someone who you could get for free in the summer.”

The stance reflects Liverpool’s recent transfer discipline. Arne Slot’s system, heavily reliant on structure and collective rhythm, rewards long-term planning rather than reactive spending. The club’s sporting department is understood to favour sustainable recruitment, and with Guehi entering the final phase of his Palace contract, waiting may simply make more sense.

Guehi’s Own Ambitions Add Complexity

From Guehi’s perspective, a mid-season move would also raise questions about timing and career momentum.

“Also, if you look at it from Marc Guehi’s perspective, he is playing well, could win another trophy at Palace this season and it’s a World Cup year so he will want to keep up that rhythm.”

England’s centre-back pool remains competitive, and maintaining form under Oliver Glasner could be vital for Guehi’s place in Thomas Tuchel’s plans for 2026 qualification. Uprooting mid-season, especially when Palace are performing solidly, risks disrupting that progress.

Patience, Perspective and Lessons Learned

Lynch also referenced the wider transfer context and lessons Liverpool may have learned from recent windows.

“Everyone was tripping over themselves to say that Milos Kerkez would be a massive upgrade on Andy Robertson, but that hasn’t worked out well has it?”

That line captures a broader truth about Liverpool’s modern recruitment approach. They move when the timing, price and profile align, not because of external pressure or short-term need.

“I doubt Liverpool will push for a deal and I doubt that the player will push for the move too.”

With Slot’s side sitting atop the Premier League, the club can afford to plan rather than panic. Guehi remains a strong long-term candidate, but for now, both parties appear content to wait until summer when logic, availability and opportunity may all fall into place.