Report: Crystal Palace face pressure as Liverpool target January transfer deal | OneFootball

Report: Liverpool poised to reignite Marc Guehi pursuit in January

Liverpool’s interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi appears far from over, with sources telling TeamTalk that a January move remains a genuine possibility. The Reds’ strategy seems poised to take a decisive turn midway through the season, suggesting that any notion of waiting until Guehi becomes a free agent in 2026 could be premature.

Guehi was very close to joining Liverpool on the final day of the summer transfer window. The England international centre-back underwent a medical, and an agreement between Liverpool and Palace over a £35million fee was in place. However, Palace pulled the plug in the closing hours after failing to sign Igor Julio as Guehi’s replacement.

Despite the setback, Liverpool appear to remain in pole position. Sources indicate that suggestions of waiting until Guehi’s contract expires may be misguided, as “transfer chess pieces are already in motion.”

European competition intensifies transfer urgency

Reports suggest La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona are monitoring Guehi, adding urgency to Liverpool’s pursuit. TeamTalk cautions that such reports should be treated carefully, as clubs often use media narratives to spark bidding wars or inflate fees. Nevertheless, Palace face increasing pressure to cash in during the January window rather than risk losing their captain for nothing next summer.

Liverpool hold a strategic advantage, however, through Guehi’s clear desire to join the Reds. “Personal terms were agreed in the summer,” sources confirm, signalling the defender’s preference for Anfield. This mutual interest positions Liverpool to potentially exploit either a calculated lowball offer or an agreement in principle for a summer move, maintaining leverage over the negotiations.

By presenting a modest bid in January, Liverpool may tempt Palace to accept less than their desired valuation rather than lose Guehi for free in 2026. Alternatively, reaching an agreement for a summer transfer would secure the defender without a fee, giving Liverpool a dual pathway to acquire a player they clearly want.

Defensive reinforcement crucial for Liverpool

Guehi, a standout performer for both England and Crystal Palace, would provide composure, athleticism, and leadership to Liverpool’s backline, particularly as Virgil van Dijk moves through the later stages of his career. His presence would offer critical depth and stability in a defence that needs reinforcement, especially following the tragic loss of Diogo Jota in July 2025, which has left a lasting emotional impact on the squad.

As January approaches, it seems likely that Liverpool will combine patience with opportunism to secure Guehi at either a reduced fee mid-season or for free in the summer. This strategic approach reflects the club’s well-established ability to navigate complex transfer negotiations with precision and foresight.

TeamTalk sources suggest Liverpool remain favourites for Guehi, owing to their prior agreement, the defender’s preference, and a calculated approach to negotiations. “Liverpool sources have given a one-word response after learning of Real Madrid’s interest in Guehi,” illustrating the confidence the club holds in maintaining leverage.

Photo IMAGO

Transfer window strategy could shape long-term defence

Liverpool’s pursuit of Guehi also highlights a wider strategy of strengthening the squad for the long term. By combining prudence with an opportunistic approach, the Reds can secure a player of top-class quality without overpaying. The summer may still bring opportunities, but January offers a window for decisive action.

This dual-pronged plan—low offer or pre-agreed summer move—reflects Liverpool’s nuanced transfer strategy, balancing financial prudence with a desire to secure top talent. Guehi’s signing would not only bolster the defence but also signal intent to remain competitive at the highest level in both domestic and European football.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter perspective, this report will be met with cautious optimism. Guehi represents exactly the type of modern centre-back the Reds need: composed on the ball, aggressive in duels, and capable of stepping into leadership roles. The fact that he prefers Liverpool over other European suitors is crucial, as it gives Anfield a genuine edge in negotiations.

Arne Slot faces the dual challenge of reinforcing the backline while maintaining team morale following the tragic loss of Diogo Jota. Guehi’s arrival, whether in January or the summer, could provide both tactical solidity and a morale boost to the squad. The strategic approach—using patience, low offers, or a pre-agreed summer transfer—demonstrates the club’s sharpness in the market, reinforcing confidence among fans that Liverpool remains a destination for top talent.

Supporters will hope the January window yields results, but there is also reassurance in knowing the club can secure Guehi for free next summer if negotiations falter. Either way, the Reds appear well-positioned to strengthen a defence that will underpin their ambitions for years to come. For fans, this is not just about a single signing but a signal that Liverpool continues to operate intelligently in the transfer market.