Liverpool appear set to bolster their defensive ranks as Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi undergoes a medical in London ahead of a £35 million move to Anfield.
The two clubs have reportedly reached an agreement, with the 25-year-old expected to complete the transfer before the 7pm deadline.
Despite Guehi already beginning his medical, doubts briefly emerged over the deal. According to The Times, Palace encountered an “unknown problem” in securing a replacement for the centre-back. The Eagles reportedly wanted an addition beyond the loan signing of Julio Igor, though they may have been beaten to the punch in their pursuit of a Brighton defender.
Ben Jacobs also reported that West Ham had intervened, with Igor choosing a move to the London Stadium rather than Selhurst Park, creating uncertainty around Guehi’s proposed switch to Liverpool. Nevertheless, sources suggest that Guehi will be allowed to continue and complete his medical, with Palace now exploring alternative centre-back options.
Liverpool’s interest in Guehi has been long-standing, and they had reportedly submitted a £35 million bid on Saturday, which included a 10% sell-on clause. Crystal Palace initially held out for £40 million but eventually agreed to the Reds’ offer. The transfer, if completed, will provide a significant boost to Liverpool’s back line.
The need for defensive reinforcements is evident. Arne Slot’s side conceded four goals in their first two Premier League matches of the season. While a stoppage-time goal by Rio Ngumoha secured a win at Newcastle United, Liverpool did manage a clean sheet against Arsenal in their most recent outing.
Defensive issues have lingered for Liverpool beyond this season. Although the Reds claimed the league title with a ten point cushion, Arsenal boasted the Premier League’s best defensive record, conceding just 34 goals. Liverpool’s tally of 43 goals conceded was closer to mid-table sides Chelsea and Everton, highlighting the importance of strengthening the backline.
The urgency to sign Guehi may have increased following Ibrahima Konaté’s injury against Arsenal on Sunday, but head coach Slot expressed cautious optimism regarding the defender’s condition.
“He thinks it is cramp and I have no reason to doubt him, although sometimes players talk about cramp and then we make a scan and it is more than that.”
Fabrizio Romano confirmed in recent days that Liverpool had been in active negotiations to sign Guehi immediately, willing to pay over £30 million. The move was contingent on Palace granting permission, though Guehi himself had already agreed personal terms with the Reds.
The £35 million fee reflects Guehi’s contract situation, with just one year remaining on his deal at Selhurst Park. The central defender, who joined Palace for £18 million in 2021, has developed into a key figure both domestically and internationally. He made his England debut in 2022 and has since earned 23 caps.
Guehi’s standout achievements include captaining Crystal Palace to a shock FA Cup triumph over Manchester City, as well as lifting the Community Shield after a victory against Liverpool earlier this month.
With his arrival, Liverpool will strengthen their chances of retaining the Premier League title while addressing one of the squad’s most pressing needs.
