In a stunning twist that could derail one of the most anticipated transfers in recent Premier League history, Liverpool’s pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi is teetering on the brink of collapse. Trusted journalist David Ornstein from The Athletic has delivered a sobering update, revealing that Guehi’s preference for Champions League football could torpedo the Reds’ chances amid their shocking slump in the league standings.
Liverpool fans were left heartbroken last summer when a deal for the 25-year-old England international fell apart at the eleventh hour. The clubs had shaken hands on a £35 million fee, complete with a 10 percent sell-on clause for Palace. Personal terms were agreed, and Guehi even passed his medical. However, Crystal Palace dramatically pulled the plug on deadline day after failing to secure a replacement.
The Eagles had targeted Brighton’s Igor Julio on loan, but the Brazilian defender opted for West Ham instead. Adding to the drama, Palace manager Oliver Glasner reportedly threatened to resign if Guehi was sold without adequate cover, forcing the club’s hierarchy to back down. Guehi stayed put at Selhurst Park, but crucially, he has refused to extend his contract, which expires at the end of the current season.
Fast forward to now, and Liverpool’s interest in the versatile centre-back remains strong. Reports across various outlets have suggested the Reds could reignite their bid in January or next summer, potentially winning the race for his signature. But Ornstein’s latest insight paints a far bleaker picture for Arne Slot’s side.
According to Ornstein, the situation is “wide open,” with fierce competition from top clubs across Europe. Guehi’s camp has made it clear that no preferential treatment will be given to Liverpool, and the player will entertain offers from all suitors. More damningly, Ornstein has dropped the bombshell that Guehi is expected to prioritize a move to a team competing in the Champions League – a competition Liverpool looks increasingly unlikely to qualify for.
The Reds, once hailed as title contenders, are enduring a nightmare campaign. Sitting 12th in the Premier League table after a disastrous run of form, their hopes of a top-four finish – let alone Champions League glory – appear dashed. Without European football’s premier competition on offer, Liverpool’s appeal to a player of Guehi’s caliber diminishes significantly.
In his full assessment, Ornstein wrote: “A summer transfer to Liverpool collapsed on deadline day, but Marc Guehi is expected to depart Selhurst Park in 2026. Whether the Premier League champions will try again in January remains unclear but even if they or other suitors do, any proposal would need to satisfy Palace and Guehi — which is by no means guaranteed.
“That is because of an amicable understanding between the south London club and their captain that he will see out the final months of his terms, attempt to lift another trophy and leave as a free agent at the end of the season.
“Guehi can speak to foreign teams from January 1, while English sides must officially wait until the summer. Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Manchester City are among his many admirers, while Real Madrid’s position may depend on the movement of other targets.
“Any suggestion that switching to Anfield is a formality would be wide of the mark; the situation remains open, the competition fierce, and Guehi will listen to all interested parties before making his decision.
“Although the 25-year-old England centre-back will have numerous destinations to choose from — and some not currently high in the pecking order could emerge as such, depending on how their seasons unfold — it is anticipated he will end up joining one of those who are expected to challenge for the Champions League trophy.”
This revelation comes at a precarious time for Liverpool, who are grappling with injuries, inconsistent performances, and mounting pressure on manager Slot. Guehi, a standout performer for Palace and England, would have been a perfect addition to bolster their leaky defense. His composure on the ball, aerial prowess, and leadership qualities – evidenced by his captaincy at Palace – make him a prime target for elite clubs.
Rivals like Manchester City, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and potentially Real Madrid are circling, all of whom are poised to offer Champions League action. Manchester City, in particular, could see Guehi as a long-term successor to aging defenders, while European giants provide the allure of continental success.
For Palace, the amicable agreement with Guehi means they risk losing their star asset for free next summer unless a January bid tempts them. Chairman Steve Parish and Glasner will be keen to avoid another deadline-day fiasco, but with Guehi’s mind seemingly set on a big move, a mid-season exit isn’t off the table if the right offer arrives.
Liverpool supporters will be hoping for a miraculous turnaround in fortunes to salvage their season and reignite their Guehi pursuit. But as Ornstein’s update starkly illustrates, the sobering reality of missing out on Champions League football could prove fatal to their ambitions.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. Will Liverpool defy the odds, or will Guehi slip through their fingers once again? The transfer window promises more drama ahead.