In a twist that could shape Liverpool’s defensive future, it’s now official: the Reds have secured a gentleman’s agreement with Crystal Palace for the transfer of England defender Marc Guehi in the summer of 2026. This revelation comes courtesy of Sky Sports, shedding light on the aftermath of last summer’s collapsed deal when Palace pulled out at the eleventh hour. However, amid growing interest from European giants, Liverpool fans might be left biting their nails as uncertainties cloud the horizon.
Marc Guehi is said to have a gentleman’s agreement
Guehi, the 25-year-old center-back who has impressed with his composure and leadership at Selhurst Park, has been a long-term target for Liverpool. With his Palace contract entering its final six months, the defender is free to negotiate with overseas clubs starting in January 2026. From the new year, he could even sign a pre-contract agreement, potentially arriving at Anfield on a free transfer. But for Liverpool to avoid a nerve-wracking wait, they may need to negotiate an early deal with Palace to bring him in sooner.
The agreement stems from the failed negotiations last summer, where Liverpool had been close to sealing the move before Palace backed out. Now, with Ibrahima Konate’s contract set to expire in the summer of 2026—though there’s still time for an extension—the Reds are prioritizing a center-back reinforcement. Guehi fits the bill perfectly, offering versatility and international experience that could bolster Arne Slot’s backline.
Yet, the path to Anfield isn’t without obstacles. Bayern Munich and Real Madrid have both expressed keen interest in Guehi, viewing him as a prime addition to their squads. Barcelona, too, could join the race, especially after Andreas Christensen’s recent injury left them short in defense. These suitors pose a significant risk to Liverpool’s plans, as Guehi’s availability on a potential free transfer makes him an attractive proposition for clubs across the continent.
Adding another layer of complexity, Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak’s weekend injury might have shifted Liverpool’s short-term focus. While the Reds have been linked with attacking reinforcements, this development could prompt a reevaluation of priorities heading into the January window. Nonetheless, Guehi remains a key target for the long term.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot, however, is keeping his eyes firmly on the pitch rather than the transfer market. Speaking ahead of the Reds’ clash with Wolves, Slot emphasized the importance of the upcoming fixtures. “My only thoughts are on the upcoming two games,” he said. “Two difficult ones again, two home games. I think it’s a time for the players we do have available to do what they’ve done so many times, to roll their sleeves up, and not only our players, but our fans as well to help us in the best possible way to get the results we want.”
Slot continued: “The players that are available need to give everything they have, and the fans, as they usually do, and I expect them to do now again as well, will help us. That is where my focus is.”
On a separate note, Slot firmly shut down any speculation about recalling midfielder Harvey Elliott from his season-long loan at Aston Villa. Despite Elliott’s limited minutes at Villa Park—where the club has an obligation to buy if he meets appearance thresholds—Slot was clear: “No, Harvey is an Aston Villa player and he is supposed to be going there for a season. So, questions about him, the best thing to ask is Aston Villa—they are doing really well, by the way.”
As the January transfer window approaches, Liverpool’s gentleman’s agreement with Guehi offers hope for a strengthened defense in 2026. But with powerhouse clubs circling and contract intricacies at play, the deal is far from guaranteed. Will the Reds hold firm, or will external interest derail their plans? Only time will tell, but for now, the worry lingers on Merseyside.