Liverpool Launch Aggressive Pursuit of Star Target as Arsenal and Man City Battle Intensifies
Liverpool remain determined to secure Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guéhi despite growing competition from Arsenal and Manchester City, according to recent reports.
The Merseyside club came tantalizingly close to acquiring Guéhi last summer after reaching a £35 million ($46.9 million) agreement with Palace, only for the Eagles to withdraw from negotiations at the final moment of the transfer window.
With Guéhi entering the last six months of his current deal and showing no signs of renewal, clubs worldwide have registered their interest. While many were content to pursue a free transfer at season's end, City have accelerated their pursuit due to their current defensive injury problems.
Palace are reportedly set to demand £40 million for Guéhi's January departure, recognizing the difficulty of finding a suitable replacement mid-season.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano indicates that Guéhi's strategy has consistently been to delay his decision until summer's end. Multiple offers from Europe's elite clubs are anticipated, potentially including enhanced wages for a free transfer move.
Romano emphasizes that City face competition in their pursuit of Guéhi's services. Liverpool maintain their long-standing interest in the England defender, while Arsenal have recently entered discussions.
Man City Seeking to Change Guéhi's Stance
Sources suggest the ultimate choice rests with Guéhi, though this mirrors last summer's situation before Palace reversed their decision to sell the 25-year-old to Liverpool.
Guéhi has consistently communicated to interested parties his preference to delay any departure until summer—a timeline that suited most pursuing clubs—but City's defensive crisis has prompted them to expedite their interest.
Pep Guardiola's team are actively working toward securing Guéhi's agreement and, upon receiving his consent, will confidently negotiate with Palace in what City executives believe will be a straightforward transaction.
Liverpool are unlikely to make an immediate move for Guéhi, preferring to avoid a costly bidding battle for a player who becomes available without a fee in six months. Arsenal's interest also appears focused on a summer free transfer.
While the Premier League clubs can only engage in indirect discussions with Guéhi's agents through established regulatory channels, international suitors including Real Madrid and Barcelona can approach the player directly to negotiate pre-contract terms.