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Introduction
Liverpool’s summer window is heating up. After landing players like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez, and securing Freddie Woodman to back up Alisson, the club looks determined to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts next season. Now, their attention has shifted to one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League: Marc Guehi.
According to several sources, Liverpool are close to finalizing a deal worth around £45 million for the Crystal Palace center-back. While nothing is signed yet, talks have advanced, and it looks increasingly likely that Marc Guehi could become the Reds’ next addition under Arne Slot.
This isn’t just a random name thrown into the mix. Marc Guehi has been one of the most consistent and composed defenders in England over the past two seasons. With Jarell Quansah on his way out and Ibrahima Konaté’s future still a little uncertain, Liverpool’s move for the 24-year-old makes a lot of sense.
What Makes Marc Guehi the Right Fit?
Marc Guehi is not the flashiest player, but he doesn’t need to be. What he offers is calmness on the ball, excellent positioning, and a steady presence in defense. Standing at just over six feet tall, he may not dominate in the air like some traditional center-backs, but his timing and decision-making have earned him plenty of respect in the league.
At Crystal Palace, he quickly established himself as a leader. He even captained the side to their historic FA Cup win last season, and played every minute of England’s Euro 2024 run until an unfortunate injury ruled him out of the later stages. That kind of reliability and high-level experience is exactly what Liverpool need as they prepare for a demanding campaign both domestically and in Europe.
Beyond his performances, what makes Marc Guehi particularly attractive is his age and contract situation. At 24, he’s young enough to improve, but seasoned enough to make an immediate impact. He’s also in the final year of his deal at Palace. That puts Liverpool in a strong negotiating position, especially with the player reportedly open to a move where he can take the next step in his career.
Palace’s Position and the £45 Million Tag
Crystal Palace are well aware of Marc Guehi’s value, both as a player and as a leader in their squad. They’ve made it clear they won’t let him leave on the cheap. Early estimates had Palace valuing him around £60–70 million, which is understandable given his form and importance to the team. But Liverpool aren’t ones to throw money around carelessly, and they know time is on their side.
With just one year left on his contract, and Marc Guehi seemingly not in a rush to sign an extension, Palace are facing a familiar dilemma. Either they cash in now for a solid fee or risk losing him next summer for nothing. That’s why the £45 million figure is being talked about so seriously. It’s a fair middle ground enough to make Palace listen, and still a smart investment for Liverpool.
Another factor that strengthens Liverpool’s hand is the recent sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for over £30 million. That move frees up both squad space and funds, allowing the club to act quickly and decisively in this window. Guehi is not a like-for-like replacement, but he offers more experience and is ready to walk into the starting XI if needed.
Guehi’s Perspective: Game Time Over Everything
From the player’s side, the decision isn’t all about money or status. Marc Guehi is at a stage in his career where regular playing time is key. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, he knows that staying in the England squad means playing every week at a high level.
He’s reportedly open to the move but wants to be sure he won’t just be a backup at Liverpool. That’s fair. Van Dijk is still the captain and cornerstone of the defense. Konaté, though talented, has had fitness issues and could be moved on if contract talks don’t progress. Joe Gomez is versatile but also inconsistent.
Arne Slot might have to be clear with Marc Guehi about where he fits. Whether it’s in a rotating role, starting alongside Van Dijk, or even part of a potential shift to a three-at-the-back system, what matters most to the player is knowing he’s going to play a meaningful part.
Tactical Fit Under Arne Slot
Under Arne Slot, Liverpool are expected to shift slightly in style. The Dutchman prefers defenders who are comfortable on the ball, can build from the back, and aren’t afraid to press forward when needed. That suits Marc Guehi perfectly.
He’s composed in possession and has shown he can carry the ball out from defense. At Palace, he often played in a system that emphasized shape and quick transitions. In Slot’s system, he would likely have more responsibility initiating attacks from the back and working with a higher defensive line.
That adaptability is key. Liverpool have lacked that kind of flexibility in recent seasons, often sticking to the same partnerships regardless of the opponent or situation. Adding Marc Guehi gives them more options and depth, which will be crucial if they’re serious about pushing for trophies again.
What This Means for Liverpool’s Summer Plans
Signing Marc Guehi wouldn’t just be about adding a quality center-back. It would be a signal that Liverpool are building smartly, not just throwing money at big names but actually constructing a balanced squad.
They’ve already brought in creative midfielders, improved their depth at full-back, and added a backup keeper. Shoring up the center of defense is the next logical step, and it might be one of the most important moves they make all window.
It also shows that the club are still thinking long-term. Van Dijk won’t be around forever. Konaté may or may not commit to a new deal. By signing Guehi now, they get someone who can play right away but also grow into a leadership role in the coming years.
The Bottom Line
Liverpool are close to wrapping up a deal for Marc Guehi, and if it goes through, it could be one of their smartest signings in recent years. He’s reliable, experienced, and still has room to develop. He fits the style, has the mentality, and is already proven at the highest level.
There are still hurdles to clear. Palace won’t want to let their captain go without a fight, and Guehi himself will need assurances about his role. But all signs point to this being a deal that works for everyone involved.
If Liverpool can pull it off, they’ll be getting more than just another body in defense. They’ll be adding someone who can anchor the back line for years to come, and maybe even lead it one day. It’s the kind of move that doesn’t make headlines the way a flashy forward might but it’s the kind that wins titles.
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The Liverpool FC Times Team
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