Liverpool’s hopes of signing Marc Guehi have suffered a major blow after Fabrizio Romano confirmed the Crystal Palace captain will walk away from Selhurst Park on a free transfer next summer. The news sets the stage for a fierce battle across Europe, with Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Barcelona already holding talks with the player’s representatives.
The Reds were within touching distance of signing Guehi on deadline day this summer. Personal terms had been agreed, a medical passed and even a farewell message recorded by the defender for Palace fans. But the deal collapsed when the Eagles failed to secure a replacement, with Brighton’s Igor Julio pulling a late U-turn to join West Ham instead.
While Liverpool are expected to re-enter the race in 2026, Romano has warned that competition will be fierce, with finances and player preference playing a decisive role.
Romano confirms free transfer exit
On his YouTube channel, Romano made the situation clear:
“At the end of the season Marc Guehi will leave on a free transfer. That’s very clear, this decision is not going to change. Liverpool will be there, but so will Bayern, Barcelona, Real Madrid and other English and Italian clubs. There is going to be a crazy battle.” — Fabrizio Romano
Romano stressed that Liverpool remain in conversations with Guehi’s camp, but warned that the competition from across Europe means Arne Slot’s side cannot afford to hesitate. With lucrative sign-on fees and salaries expected, the battle could hinge on financial firepower as much as footballing vision.
Liverpool’s near-miss
Liverpool can count themselves unfortunate not to have landed Guehi this summer. Agreements had been struck at every level, but Palace boss Oliver Glasner resisted the move, warning the board he would walk if the player was sold without a replacement. Palace relented, leaving Guehi to see out one final season as captain.
Despite the disappointment, Guehi has shown remarkable professionalism. His form for Palace has remained high, marshalling their defence as the South London club continue to defy expectations under Glasner.
Guehi’s next destination: Bayern the favourites?
According to our sources close to the player, Guehi has privately expressed admiration for Bayern Munich’s project. England captain Harry Kane and former Palace teammate Michael Olise are understood to be advocating for his signature, which could tilt the scales in favour of the Bundesliga giants.
Sky Germany previously reported that Bayern have held initial discussions, while Spanish media have tied both Real Madrid and Barcelona to the player. Italian clubs are also circling, meaning the summer of 2026 could see one of the most contested free-agent transfers in recent Premier League history.
Stats snapshot – Marc Guehi 2025/26
| Stat (2025/26) | Guehi |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 11 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Tackles per game | 2.1 |
| Pass accuracy | 86% |
source: sofascore match data – 6 October 2025
Numbers confirm Guehi’s consistency this season, but his leadership and defensive intelligence remain clear regardless of stats.
Analyst verdict: Liverpool risk being outbid
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Liverpool face a daunting challenge:
“Liverpool had Guehi in the palm of their hands, only for Palace’s replacement search to scupper the move. Now, with Bayern, Real Madrid and Barcelona all involved, this is no longer a one-club race. Liverpool will need to be aggressive both financially and in persuading Guehi of their long-term project.”
Key insights
- Fabrizio Romano confirms Marc Guehi will leave Crystal Palace on a free in 2026.
- Liverpool had a deal agreed in the summer before it collapsed at the last moment.
- Bayern, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Italian giants are all pushing for his signature.
- Sources suggest Guehi is leaning towards Bayern, with Kane and Olise urging the move.
- Liverpool must match financial packages to have any chance of winning the race.
What’s next for Guehi and Liverpool?
Liverpool’s defence is in need of fresh investment, but they may face their toughest transfer battle yet. Guehi’s availability as a free agent will spark a scramble across Europe, and waiting until next summer could prove costly if other clubs gain the upper hand.
For Guehi, the 2025/26 season may be his farewell tour at Selhurst Park. His professionalism and leadership will ensure Palace remain competitive, but the final chapter looks written: he will leave, and the question is whether Liverpool can outmanoeuvre Europe’s elite to finally get their man.
👉 Should Liverpool go all-in for Guehi next summer — or focus on alternative centre-back targets?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 7 Oct 2025 20:30
Bayern is one of the biggest clubs in the world. His mate Olise is there already, with Kompany as his manager I could see this transfer happen for Bayern!
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