Liverpool’s transfer spree continues to gather momentum and they are expected to beat Newcastle United in the race to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi. Recent developments reported by Fichajes suggest that Newcastle’s interest in Guehi has cooled, paving the way for Liverpool to make a move.
The potential transfer has sent ripples around the football world and raised questions about Liverpool’s future defensive line-up, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding Virgil van Dijk’s future at Anfield. With the transfer window drawing to a close, Liverpool may need to act quickly to secure Guehi, who is also attracting interest from several top Premier League clubs.
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Marc Guehi: The ideal candidate?
Marc Guehi has caught the eye of many top clubs and it’s easy to see why. His performances for Crystal Palace in the 2023/24 season in particular have seen him emerge as one of the Premier League’s most promising defenders. The 24-year-old former Chelsea player made 25 Premier League appearances last season, helping Crystal Palace keep seven clean sheets. His defensive stability and ability to read the game make him an attractive proposition for clubs looking to strengthen their backline.
Reports from Spain have suggested that Liverpool in particular see Guehi as the “perfect addition” for the summer transfer window, suggesting the Reds see him as a long-term partner for Ibrahima Konate at centre-back. With Van Dijk’s future uncertain, with just 12 months left on his contract, Liverpool’s need for a reliable understudy becomes all the more urgent.
Declining interest in Newcastle: opportunity for Liverpool?
Newcastle United have reportedly had four bids rejected for Guehi, with the latest reaching £65m including add-ons, but Crystal Palace are sticking with their £75m valuation. With Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions looming on such a big deal, Newcastle may reconsider signing the centre-back.
This is a golden opportunity for Liverpool, who would have a clearer path to signing Guehi if Newcastle truly backs out, but the question remains whether they are willing or able to meet Crystal Palace’s high asking price.
Liverpool’s defensive dilemma
It’s no secret that Liverpool need to strengthen their defense. Once the linchpin of Liverpool’s defence, Virgil van Dijk is now in the final year of his contract, with his future uncertain and casting a shadow over Liverpool’s defensive plans. Furthermore, another key member of the backline, Joe Gomez, has also been linked with a move away from Anfield, further increasing the need for a new centre-back.
Jalel Kwansah’s inclusion in Liverpool’s starting XI for their opening Premier League game against Ipswich Town highlighted the club’s current reliance on young, inexperienced players. While Kwansah’s potential is undeniable, Liverpool cannot rest all their hopes on developing players, especially if they are aiming to win titles on multiple fronts.
That’s where Guehi comes in. His experience and age make him an ideal candidate for Liverpool’s long-term defensive strategy, but Liverpool will need to act swiftly and decisively if they want to secure him before the transfer window closes.
What’s next for Liverpool and Guehi?
With the transfer window drawing to a close, Liverpool will need to carefully consider their options. With Newcastle’s interest potentially waning, Liverpool’s path to signing Guehi may seem easier, but the £75 million fee remains a significant hurdle.
Moreover, with other clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal also showing interest, Liverpool will need to act quickly to avoid missing out on the England international. The next few days could be crucial in determining whether Marc Guehi will remain at Anfield next season, or if Liverpool will have to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
Liverpool fans will no doubt have mixed feelings about the potential signing of Marc Guehi. On the one hand, signing a young and talented centre-back like Guehi would be a statement of intent, especially if it means fending off rivals such as Newcastle, Manchester United and Arsenal. Guehi has proven his ability at Euro 2024 and in the Premier League and could form a formidable partnership with Ibrahima Konate for years to come.
However, the £75 million price tag will give many fans pause. Liverpool have traditionally been cautious in the transfer market and spending such a large sum on a defender may not sit well with everyone, especially given the need to strengthen other areas of the squad. Fans will hope that if Liverpool go all out to sign Guehi, it will not be at the expense of strengthening their midfield or attacking options.
Furthermore, uncertainty surrounding Virgil van Dijk’s future further complicates the situation – if van Dijk were to leave, a replacement of a player of Guehi’s calibre might soften the blow, but fans will also be watching to see if the Dutchman can still play a key role for the club this season.
In conclusion, while the potential signing of Marc Guehi is exciting, Liverpool fans will be watching to see how the club navigates this transfer window. Will they splash out big to secure a long-term defensive solution or bide their time in the market? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the coming weeks could be crucial for Liverpool’s future.