The ghost of transfer deadline day past has returned to haunt Liverpool. After a £35m move for Marc Guehi collapsed in the final hours of the summer window, the Reds are now staring down the barrel of a hijack from their fiercest rivals. Reports indicate that Manchester City believe they have won the race for the Crystal Palace captain.
Context: The Summer Collapse
In August 2025, Liverpool appeared to have their man. A fee had been agreed, medicals were tentatively scheduled, but Crystal Palace pulled the plug at the eleventh hour, unable to source a replacement for their skipper. Fast forward to January 2026, and the landscape has shifted drastically. Guehi has entered the final six months of his contract, meaning Palace must sell now for a cut-price fee or lose a £70m asset for free in July.
According to the Liverpool Echo, the asking price has dropped significantly below the summer figure, with Palace now reportedly willing to accept a package in the region of £30m-£35m.
Man City's Injury Crisis
While Liverpool have been patient, Manchester City have been forced into panic mode. The long-term injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol have left Pep Guardiola’s backline decimated. Sources suggest City executives have moved aggressively, convincing themselves that a £30m deal is "all but done" to bring Guehi to the Etihad immediately.
The betting markets have swung violently in response. The odds on Guehi’s next club now show City as the clear favourites, overtaking Liverpool for the first time in six months. Bookmakers view the combination of City’s financial muscle and desperate need for a defender as a decisive factor.
Slot's Dilemma
For Arne Slot, this is a critical test. Liverpool are currently reliant on Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate as their only fit senior centre-backs. Losing their long-term target to a direct title rival—at a discount price—would be a bitter pill to swallow. However, with Slot’s tactical vision relying heavily on ball-playing defenders, he may pressure the board to match City’s offer instantly.
What Happens Next?
This is a classic game of poker. Crystal Palace are waiting for Liverpool to respond to City's opening gambit. If the Reds match the £30m bid, the decision falls to Guehi: join the champions in a time of crisis, or finally complete the move to Anfield that was snatched away four months ago. Expect a definitive update within the next 72 hours as Palace look to cash in.