EPL Index
·25 December 2025
Report: Liverpool yet to reach agreement over deal to sign £35m star

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·25 December 2025

Liverpool’s transfer strategy ahead of the January window is beginning to sharpen, with senior figures at Anfield stepping up parallel efforts to address key areas of concern. Central defence and attacking depth remain at the top of the agenda, and sources indicate that Marc Guehi and Karim Adeyemi have emerged as two of the most closely monitored profiles as the club balances immediacy with long-term planning.
With contract situations, form curves and availability all under review, Liverpool’s recruitment team are operating with intent rather than urgency. The picture developing around Guehi and Adeyemi reflects a club keen to move early, reduce uncertainty and avoid the inflated markets that often define the latter stages of a window.

Photo: IMAGO
Liverpool’s interest in Guehi is neither new nor speculative. Internal assessments have consistently placed the Crystal Palace captain among the most reliable defensive performers in the Premier League over the past two seasons. Comfortable defending high spaces, assured in possession and tactically mature, Guehi fits the technical and personality profile Liverpool value in central defenders.
There is growing awareness that Guehi’s contract situation places Palace under pressure. While no agreement has been reached and competition remains strong, Liverpool have positioned themselves prominently by signalling a willingness to act decisively if conditions align. Bayern Munich are also monitoring developments closely, while Barcelona have explored the deal but face clear financial limitations.
From Liverpool’s perspective, the appeal is twofold. Guehi offers immediate Premier League readiness and leadership qualities, while also representing a long-term cornerstone in defence. Any move would require careful negotiation, but the sense around the market is that Liverpool are prepared to make a serious commitment if the opportunity materialises.
Alongside the defensive focus, Liverpool have intensified their search for attacking reinforcements, particularly in wide areas. Adeyemi has re-entered discussions after alternative targets became less attainable, and contact has been established with his representatives to assess feasibility.
Adeyemi’s situation at Borussia Dortmund is nuanced. While his raw output this season has been solid, contract talks have stalled and Dortmund are open to listening to offers that reflect his market value. Liverpool are aware of the disparity between public valuations and Dortmund’s internal expectations, with figures ranging widely depending on timing and competition.
What makes Adeyemi appealing is his tactical versatility. Comfortable operating off either flank and capable of stretching defensive lines with pace and power, he offers attributes Liverpool currently lack in certain match scenarios. The recruitment team view him as a player who could complement existing options rather than disrupt the balance of the squad.
Any potential deals for Guehi or Adeyemi will be shaped by Liverpool’s broader financial planning. While there is room to manoeuvre, the club remain disciplined and data-driven, preferring clarity over reactive spending. That approach explains why early dialogue has been prioritised, even if formal bids are still contingent on movement elsewhere.
Competition is expected on both fronts. In Guehi’s case, elite European clubs remain alert to his availability, while Adeyemi continues to attract interest from multiple Premier League sides. Liverpool’s advantage lies in their preparedness and their willingness to articulate a clear sporting project to both players.
As January approaches, Liverpool’s intentions are becoming clearer. Guehi represents a strategic defensive acquisition, while Adeyemi is viewed as a potential attacking solution should the right conditions arise. Neither deal is straightforward, and neither is guaranteed, but groundwork has been laid.
The coming weeks are likely to determine whether Liverpool convert interest into action. What is evident is that planning is advanced, conversations are ongoing and both Guehi and Adeyemi sit firmly within a carefully structured recruitment framework rather than opportunistic speculation.









































