Liverpool have been dealt a potentially huge blow in their efforts to sign Marc Guehi at the end of the season, according to a new transfer claim.
It is common knowledge that the 25-year-old was on the verge of completing a move to Anfield on deadline day at the start of the month, only for the transfer to fall through.
Crystal Palace dug their heels in, despite Guehi passing a medical and agreeing a deal with Liverpool, deciding that they didn’t have sufficient defensive depth without him around.
Liverpool have continued to be linked with a move for the England international in 2026, however, with Giovanni Leoni’s long-term knee injury meaning they could even look to bring in a new face in the January transfer window.
According to Football Insider, Guehi “has set his heart” on joining Real Madrid next summer, in a potential huge blow for Reds head coach Arne Slot.
The update states that “sources with knowledge of the situation say Guehi ‘privately’ blames Liverpool for failing to secure an agreement”, which is why he would now rather move to Madrid.
Guehi still the No.1 centre-back option for Liverpool
Missing out on Guehi would be such a disappointment, and the fact that Madrid are in the race is a concern, given the pull they have with players all around the world.
The Palace captain stands out as the perfect choice to be added to Liverpool’s back-line, so they must do all they can to ensure that they still strike a deal for him.
Guehi is at a great age, possessing lots of Premier League experience but not yet hitting his peak, with his leadership, quality on the ball and consistency also standing out.
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart described him as “exceptional” during Euro 2024 last year, following some impressive performances for the Three Lions, and he could be a wonderful signing for the Reds if they do get their man.
Madrid have been a pain in the past, though, not least persuading Trent Alexander-Arnold to join them, and seeing them beat Liverpool to Guehi’s signature would be tough to take.
