Marc Guehi Transfer Battle Heats Up as Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Man City Discover Their Real Odds
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has put an end to January transfer rumors involving captain Marc Guéhi by confirming the defender won't be departing in the winter window. However, this merely postpones the inevitable for the Eagles by half a year.
Guéhi remained at Selhurst Park during the summer transfer period despite intense pursuit from Liverpool. A transfer valued at approximately £35 million ($46.7 million) came remarkably close to fruition, with reports indicating the center-back had already undergone portions of his medical examination.
The transfer eventually fell through, yet Guéhi's ambition to seek new opportunities appears unchanged. Glasner revealed earlier this season that his most dependable player had turned down a new contract offer and is positioned to leave as a free agent when his current agreement concludes next summer.
Naturally, the prospect of a January departure remained on the table. Sources indicated that Liverpool would have been the sole realistic winter suitor while other interested parties, including Real Madrid, Manchester City and Bayern Munich, chose to wait until he becomes available without a fee in July. Now Liverpool must also exercise patience.
"I believe Marc will remain until the season concludes," Glasner stated to reporters while discussing Crystal Palace's Conference League fixture against KuPS.
While this statement may reduce speculation about a winter departure, it simply pushes the matter forward to the upcoming summer transfer period.
Which Clubs Could Secure Marc Guehi on a Free Transfer?
It would be simpler to identify the teams not pursuing a 25-year-old, established England international who can adapt to various tactical setups and playing philosophies.
The financial requirements involved appear to quickly eliminate certain potential suitors—furthermore, clubs below the top tier would also find it challenging to satisfy Guéhi's aspirations which, according to Glasner, involve wanting to "achieve something different."
Liverpool, who face their own defensive contract situation with Ibrahima Konaté, will remain connected to their missed target until he eventually commits elsewhere. Nevertheless, the Premier League leaders and Manchester City face a structural disadvantage compared to European competitors regarding free transfer negotiations.
While clubs from other leagues can formally approach Guéhi starting Jan. 1, potentially securing the intelligent defender's signature on a pre-contract arrangement six months before his Palace deal ends, Premier League sides must wait until the final month of those terms, meaning June 2026.