Liverpool confident of Marc Guéhi Deal as defender pushes for move

Liverpool are increasingly confident of sealing the signing of Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace, with negotiations described as “advanced” by Sky Sports. The 24-year-old centre-back has informed his representatives that he wants the move to Anfield, but Palace chairman Steve Parish is holding firm until a suitable replacement is found.

Talks have been ongoing for several weeks, and insiders suggest Liverpool are prepared to meet Palace’s valuation of around £45m. The deal would see Guéhi sign a five-year contract, bolstering Arne Slot’s defensive options ahead of a congested autumn that includes both Premier League and Champions League commitments.

Palace, however, are reluctant sellers. With Eberechi Eze also pushing for a transfer, the Eagles are wary of losing two of their biggest assets in one window. Their recruitment team has been tasked with identifying an immediate successor before green-lighting Guéhi’s departure. The timing is critical, as Liverpool aim to finalise before rivals — including Inter Milan — complicate the race.

Liverpool see Guéhi as the ideal long-term partner for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, especially with Joel Matip gone and Joe Gomez linked with a potential exit. His consistency at Palace and experience with England make him a low-risk, high-upside signing at a fee the Reds deem manageable.

Importantly, Guéhi himself is pushing. Reports in France noted that he and Eze made their stance clear over the weekend, signalling privately to Palace that they want Parish to sanction exits if the offers meet valuation. That direct pressure gives Liverpool leverage as discussions continue.

From Liverpool’s perspective, this move ticks every box. Slot’s system demands centre-backs who can defend space aggressively and build from the back — Guéhi has proven himself in both areas. His Premier League pedigree means no adaptation curve, a crucial factor as the Reds chase Manchester City at the top.

My own observation is that Guéhi has been one of the league’s most positionally intelligent defenders over the past two seasons. He rarely dives in, instead shepherding attackers into less dangerous zones. That patience, combined with his ability to play forward passes, should complement van Dijk’s leadership and Konaté’s athleticism perfectly.

Liverpool will continue talks this week, aiming to finalise before the weekend. If Palace identify a replacement swiftly, the transfer could accelerate rapidly, with medicals already being pencilled in on Merseyside.

Inter Milan remain an alternative suitor, but sources close to the deal suggest Liverpool’s offer and Guéhi’s personal preference give them the upper hand. With Champions League registration deadlines approaching, Slot is pushing for a swift conclusion.

Should Liverpool go all in to secure Guéhi now — or risk a late Inter Milan hijack?