Newcastle and Liverpool Lock Horns Over Fresh Transfer Target as Rivalry Intensifies
Newcastle United have reportedly rekindled their interest in Crystal Palace center-back Marc Guéhi, who also features prominently on Liverpool's transfer wishlist.
The summer transfer market has proven challenging for Newcastle. The Magpies have been unsuccessful in their pursuits of Hugo Ekitiké, James Trafford and Giorgio Scalvini, while also facing the potential departure of star forward Alexander Isak to Liverpool.
As Champions League qualification beckons, Eddie Howe must identify alternative reinforcements to strengthen his squad during the current window, leading the club to renew their interest in securing Guéhi's services.
Newcastle are targeting the England international with a £40 million ($53.1 million) offer, as reported by The Times. However, Crystal Palace have allegedly established a £50 million ($66.4 million) valuation for Guéhi.
The publication suggests that Newcastle believe Crystal Palace might reduce their asking price if the Magpies delay their approach until the final stages of the transfer period.
Howe's team previously attempted to acquire Guéhi's services during the previous summer window, but witnessed three offers for the defender turned down by the Eagles. Twelve months on, Newcastle are ready to enter negotiations for the 25-year-old once more, though they now face competition from Liverpool.
Following Jarell Quansah's transfer to Bayer Leverkusen, the Reds require additional defensive reinforcement. However, Liverpool remain cautious about investing "such a substantial amount" for Guéhi, whose current deal runs until the conclusion of the 2025–26 campaign.
Nevertheless, Liverpool's pursuit of Guéhi could potentially create another transfer tussle with Arne Slot's team. Ekitiké previously chose the reigning English champions over the Magpies, while Isak has also expressed interest in joining the Merseyside club.
Liverpool lodged an official £110 million ($146.3 million) offer for Isak which Newcastle turned down, despite the Swedish striker's well-documented wish to depart. With Isak's transfer situation remaining unresolved, the Magpies will likely engage in further negotiations with the Reds in the upcoming weeks, particularly if both clubs continue their pursuit of Guéhi.
The English defender moved to Crystal Palace in July 2021 and has since featured in 155 matches for the Eagles. Guéhi was instrumental in the club's recent FA Cup victory over Manchester City, contributing to Crystal Palace's maiden major silverware success.