Liverpool’s defensive revamp continues to grab attention, but it seems the Merseyside giants will be taking a patient approach when it comes to landing Crystal Palace skipper Marc Guéhi.
According to journalist Paul Joyce of The Times, the Reds have cooled their pursuit of a January 2026 move, instead eyeing a free transfer next summer when the England international’s contract at Selhurst Park formally expires.
A transfer that nearly materialised
The Guéhi saga has already delivered its share of twists. During the final days of the recent summer window, the 25-year-old came painfully close to sealing a blockbuster switch to Anfield.
Reports confirmed that Guéhi had even passed medical examinations with Arne Slot’s men, only for the transfer to collapse at the last stage. Palace couldn’t secure a replacement in time, leading manager Oliver Glasner to block the exit.
For Liverpool, it marked a frustrating conclusion to weeks of talks. For Guéhi, it was a crushing setback after seemingly preparing for the next phase of his career. Yet despite the letdown, the story is far from over.
Liverpool prepared to take measured stance:
Joyce’s latest report underlines that Liverpool’s recruitment chiefs see little sense in paying a transfer fee for a player set to be out of contract within months.
With Palace resigned to losing their captain and Guéhi unwilling to commit to new terms, the Reds believe patience is the most financially prudent strategy.
While Liverpool are expected to continue tracking other defensive targets in January, Guéhi’s situation stands apart.
The club knows he was ready to join them in the summer, and they remain confident that interest will stay mutual once he becomes a free agent.