Liverpool Handed Major Boost in the Race to Sign £35m Star | OneFootball

Liverpool Maintain Interest in Guehi as Palace Consider Kelly Move

Liverpool’s defensive plans for the current transfer window are beginning to take shape, with Marc Guehi emerging as a primary target. According to The Guardian, the Crystal Palace captain could be allowed to leave Selhurst Park if the right offer is made, with £40 million quoted as a potential fee for the England international.

At 25, Guehi offers Premier League experience and leadership qualities that appeal strongly to Liverpool, particularly following Jarell Quansah’s sale to Bayer Leverkusen. While the Reds have secured Giovanni Leoni from Parma, there is still a sense that Arne Slot requires one more senior option to solidify his defensive unit.

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Why Guehi Appeals to Liverpool

Guehi has been a model of consistency since arriving at Palace and now finds himself at a crossroads. His contract runs until 2026, but efforts to extend his deal have so far failed, leading to speculation over a summer move. For Liverpool, his profile fits perfectly, combining composure in possession with the physical attributes needed in the Premier League.

Palace, understandably, would prefer to keep their captain. However, they appear to be preparing for life without him, which could influence negotiations with Liverpool.

Palace Target Lloyd Kelly as Contingency

“The former Bournemouth and Newcastle defender Lloyd Kelly – now at Juventus – is an option to replace Guéhi should he depart,” states the report from The Guardian. Kelly only joined Juventus on a permanent deal for around £17.5 million after a loan spell, but the possibility of a return to England remains strong.

The 26-year-old is no stranger to Liverpool’s radar. Kelly has been linked with Anfield on multiple occasions, and his previous connection with Liverpool’s current sporting director, Richard Hughes, adds another layer to the story. Hughes signed Kelly for Bournemouth in 2019, and that relationship could now help Crystal Palace facilitate a deal for Guehi.

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Liverpool’s Current Centre-Back Picture

Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez remain Liverpool’s core defensive trio, but with Konaté also out of contract in 2026 and attracting interest from Real Madrid, long-term planning is essential. Adding Guehi now would provide both immediate depth and future security.

If Palace secure Kelly, Liverpool’s chances of landing Guehi would increase significantly. With time running down in the window, this remains one of the most intriguing transfer stories to watch.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool, Guehi would be an outstanding signing. At £40 million, he represents value for an England international with captaincy experience and proven ability at Premier League level. Supporters know that depth at centre-back is vital, especially with the likelihood of competing deep in multiple competitions this season.

The prospect of Konaté leaving on a free in 2026 will also weigh heavily on the club’s strategy. Guehi could not only replace that future gap but also serve as a ready-made partner for Virgil van Dijk in the short term.

Palace’s pursuit of Lloyd Kelly is the key development here. If that move progresses, Liverpool could strike quickly. Fans will hope Richard Hughes uses his network and experience to make this happen. Defensive stability was a cornerstone of last season’s title win, and adding Guehi would reinforce that strength for the years ahead.