UPDATE: Liverpool’s attempts to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi have hit a significant obstacle, just ahead of the January transfer window. After a failed attempt to secure the player in the summer, the Reds are now facing challenges that could hinder their pursuit once again.
New reports confirm that Guehi’s anticipated move to Liverpool is looking increasingly unlikely. The £35 million deal negotiated on deadline day last summer fell through at the last moment, leaving the England international to remain at Palace for the first half of the season.
With Guehi’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, he can begin negotiating with clubs outside England from January 1. However, it appears he is poised to stay at Palace for the remainder of the campaign, according to BBC Sport. This development means Guehi may opt to sign with a new club as a free agent either during or shortly after the January window.
Liverpool has faced multiple injury issues this season, particularly in their defensive lineup. Key player Giovanni Leoni is out for the rest of the season due to a knee injury, while Joe Gomez has also spent considerable time sidelined. This situation raises questions about whether Liverpool will intensify their efforts to secure Guehi or explore alternative options for defensive reinforcements.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner indicated in October that he expects Guehi to leave on a free transfer, revealing that the player has no intention of signing a new contract.
“I think Marc has already told us that he doesn’t sign a new contract, so he will leave next year,”
Glasner stated. He added,
“The club wanted him to stay. They offered Marc a new contract. But he said: ‘No, I want to make something different’. And that’s normal.”
As the January window approaches, all eyes will be on Liverpool and their potential strategies regarding Guehi. Will they make a final push to secure the talented defender, or will they shift their focus to other targets? Fans and analysts alike are eager for developments as the situation continues to unfold.
For ongoing updates and breaking news, follow Liverpool ECHO on Twitter at @LivEchoLFC and stay tuned for all the latest developments.
