The battle for Marc Guehi has evolved into a complex game of brinkmanship, with fresh reports indicating that while the player holds a distinct preference for a move to Liverpool, Manchester City are currently the only side willing to meet Crystal Palace’s January valuation.
According to a report from Football365, the England international has privately indicated that Anfield is his desired destination. However, the logistical reality of the transfer market threatens to override his sentiment, with Palace demanding a £40m fee that Liverpool are reluctant to pay mid-season.
The Preference vs. The Reality
It is understood that Guehi views Arne Slot’s Liverpool as the ideal environment for the next phase of his career. The potential to succeed Virgil van Dijk and anchor the Reds' defence for the next five years is a project that appeals heavily to the 24-year-old.
However, preference alone does not sign contracts. Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by Richard Hughes, have reportedly taken a firm stance: they will not be drawn into paying a premium in January for a player whose contract situation means his value will plummet by June. With Guehi’s deal at Selhurst Park expiring in 2026, Liverpool’s strategy is to wait until the summer when Palace’s leverage is non-existent.
This patience, however, creates a dangerous vacuum. Manchester City, unburdened by the same level of financial caution and driven by immediate necessity, are ready to act. Pep Guardiola has seen his defence decimated by injuries to Ruben Dias and John Stones this season, and the Etihad hierarchy views £40m as a negligible sum to secure a proven Premier League fix.
Palace’s £40m Ultimatum
The report highlights a critical shift in Crystal Palace’s stance. Having previously quoted figures in excess of £65m, the Eagles have accepted the grim reality of Guehi’s contract status. Chairman Steve Parish knows that if Guehi stays beyond January without signing a new deal, his value essentially halves.
Palace have therefore set a "take it or leave it" price of roughly £40m for a January exit. This figure is designed to tempt buyers into action now. For City, this is an acceptable expense for immediate title insurance. For Liverpool, it is seen as an unnecessary overpayment for a player they believe they can get for significantly less—or for free—further down the line.
The "Agreement" Myth
Despite rumours circulating on social media of a "done deal" with Liverpool, sources close to the negotiation emphasize that no formal agreement exists. Crucially, as this would be a domestic transfer between two Premier League clubs, Liverpool are legally prohibited from signing Guehi on a pre-contract agreement in January.
Unlike foreign clubs, who could secure his signature now for a summer move, Liverpool must agree a fee with Palace to speak to the player officially. This leaves them vulnerable. If City bid £40m tomorrow and Palace accept, Liverpool would be forced to match the bid instantly or rely on Guehi refusing a move to the reigning champions—a scenario that represents a massive gamble for FSG.
Market Sentiment
The uncertainty is reflected in the betting markets. While Liverpool remain marginal favourites due to the player’s preference, the Marc Guehi next club odds have tightened significantly. The market is beginning to price in the possibility that City’s financial aggression will trump Liverpool’s long-term strategy.
The next ten days will be decisive. If Liverpool continue to call Palace’s bluff, they risk watching their primary defensive target head to Manchester simply because they refused to pay the January premium.