Liverpool ‘Open Talks’ with Crystal Palace to Sign Marc Guehi in £30m Deal – Report | OneFootball

Marc Guehi Move Could Be Masterstroke in Liverpool’s Rebuild

As Liverpool’s summer rebuild continues to gather pace under Arne Slot, TeamTalk reports that Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi has emerged as a serious transfer target. With Guehi understood to have made a move to Anfield his priority, the Reds are wasting no time in pushing ahead with negotiations.

Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, is said to be leading talks with a typically shrewd approach. Palace value the 24-year-old in the £70 million range, yet Liverpool are reportedly preparing a ‘lowball’ offer around £30 million, with expectations that a £40 million fee may ultimately be agreed. Hughes has already overseen five summer arrivals, and if Guehi joins, it could be his finest piece of business yet.

Guehi’s Intentions Could Drive Deal

Guehi’s contract expires in 2026, but with only a year left and Palace prepared to cash in, the stars seem to be aligning. Sources told TeamTalk’s Fraser Fletcher that Liverpool are in talks with Palace, and personal terms with the player are close to being finalised. The England international has made 23 appearances for his country and featured prominently in Euro 2024.

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Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness summed up the situation: “It would be a no-brainer for them (Liverpool) if they can get hold of him, and all the noises coming out of the Marc Guehi camp are that he’s keen to go.” He added: “I’m frightened to say it, but yes, it’s going to be a good signing for Liverpool and I think it will go through.”

This drive from Guehi to join Liverpool may well weaken Palace’s negotiating position, especially with the club already lining up Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande as his replacement.

Potential Exit for Konaté Accelerates Talks

Liverpool’s pursuit of Guehi is also tied to growing uncertainty around Ibrahima Konaté. Football finance expert Stefan Borson told TeamTalk: “From what I hear, there hasn’t been much progress in his contract talks and they would rather make money on him now rather than let him go for free.”

He continued: “Liverpool have got a few concerns about Konaté because he’s got a mistake in him… if they can go out and get a replacement, like Marc Guehi, for example, it’s something they’re going to explore.”

Photo: IMAGO

It appears the club is not just seeking depth, but also reliability and consistency. Guehi fits that bill, having impressed consistently at Palace and during England duty.

Hughes Building from Strength

Liverpool’s ambition this summer has been evident. With the arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Armin Pecsi and Giorgi Mamardashvili, the reigning Premier League champions are not resting on their laurels.

The signing of Guehi would not just fill the void left by Jarell Quansah’s expected move to Bayer Leverkusen. It could also futureproof the defence if Konaté’s situation ends in a sale.

Hughes appears to be putting Liverpool in position to dominate both domestically and in Europe. As Wyness noted, the parallels to Virgil van Dijk’s transformative move are compelling: “If you remember the days when Virgil van Dijk came from Southampton… he and Guehi, if they can keep fit, would be fantastic.”

Slot’s Ruthless Edge Emerges

Slot’s authority in the market is evident. With the club reportedly preparing to offload up to 11 players, including big names like Darwin Nunez in a rejected deal involving Victor Osimhen and Federico Chiesa, Liverpool’s approach is ruthless and refreshing.

Meanwhile, new signing Milos Kerkez called Liverpool “the biggest club in England,” a subtle dig at rivals Manchester United and a reflection of the mood at Anfield.

If Guehi is next through the door, Slot’s side could begin the 2025–26 season with one of the most complete squads in Europe.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

If Liverpool do manage to land Marc Guehi for anywhere near £40 million, it could be one of the signings of the summer. You’re talking about a player who’s just come off a top-level international tournament, is Premier League proven and has barely scratched the surface of his potential. He’s strong, calm on the ball, positionally intelligent and would thrive under Arne Slot’s high-pressing system.

The big thing here is his desire to come to Anfield. That’s the game-changer. When players want to come, the club has leverage. Palace might want £70 million, but if Guehi’s only interested in Liverpool, Hughes holds the cards. Fans will remember how key Van Dijk became – Guehi has the potential to be that kind of figure for the next five or six years.

If Konaté does go, it’ll sting a bit, but with Guehi and Van Dijk, and youngsters like Bajcetic and Pecsi coming through, the future looks rock solid. Slot isn’t afraid to shake things up, and you can feel the momentum building. Another smart signing, another bold move. Keep them coming.