BREAKING NEWS LIVE 》Liverpool Set to Sign £40m Premier League Star – Report Liverpool Lead Race for Marc Guehi Amid Defensive Rebuild

Slot reshapes defensive core

Liverpool’s evolving backline could soon see a new name added to the roster, with The Mirror reporting that Arne Slot’s side are “close to a move for Marc Guehi.” The Crystal Palace and England centre-half has been on the radar of several top clubs this summer, but it appears Liverpool are “in prime position and that talks between all parties will take place in the next 24 hours.”

This potential addition comes as Jarell Quansah edges closer to a move to Bayer Leverkusen, signalling a reshuffling of the centre-back options. While a buy-back clause is said to be included in Quansah’s deal, his development will now continue on the continent, leaving a gap Liverpool are keen to fill swiftly and smartly.

Guehi valued highly but Liverpool look to strike smart deal

Crystal Palace have taken a pragmatic approach to Guehi’s situation. With just one year remaining on his contract, the south London club understand they may not receive the full £70 million they would ideally command.

As The Mirror notes: “There are still hurdles to get over. Crystal Palace value their England centre-half in the region of £70m but are realistic enough to know suitors will not go up that mark… they will still hold out for a fee in excess of £40m.”

From Liverpool’s perspective, a deal in the region of £50 million would represent calculated value, particularly if Quansah fetches around £30 million with an additional £5 million in add-ons. The cost of upgrading to a more experienced, internationally proven, and homegrown player like Guehi could therefore be just £15 million.

Guehi’s profile fits Slot’s system

Guehi offers more than just defensive security. His composure in possession, ability to read the game, and comfort in high-pressure environments make him a natural fit for a Liverpool side that expects more than just reactive defending.

He has captained Crystal Palace, earned senior England caps, and shown the sort of temperament that suggests he would relish the responsibility of competing for a starting spot at Anfield.

Though initially projected as a third-choice centre-back, Guehi has the tools, physically and mentally, to challenge Ibrahima Konaté for the right to partner Virgil van Dijk. At 24, his best years are ahead, and Liverpool’s track record in developing defenders only strengthens the argument for the move.

Business with foresight

In a market where overpayment is common, Liverpool appear poised to execute another astute transfer. With Guehi’s contract situation suppressing his value and the timing aligning with Quansah’s departure, the opportunity to bring in a top-tier English defender on favourable terms is there for the taking.

This is not a signing for headlines, it is one for structure, depth and competition. And with Slot shaping the next iteration of this Liverpool side, the message is clear: progress requires precision.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Marc Guehi to Liverpool? That’s a move that makes complete sense. He’s got Premier League experience, has looked solid in an often exposed Palace defence, and crucially, he fits the homegrown criteria, something clubs can’t ignore in squad planning.

At £50 million, it’s smart business. Considering Quansah could go for £30–35 million, Liverpool essentially pay a top-up to get someone who’s already an international and still has room to grow. And with Virgil van Dijk ageing and Konaté inconsistent with injuries, having Guehi come in ready to compete immediately adds serious depth.

He won’t come just to sit on the bench either, that’s not how this squad is built. Slot will want high standards in training and genuine competition, and Guehi provides that. It’s not hard to imagine him becoming a regular by the end of the season, especially if injuries or rotation come into play.

For fans, this move ticks boxes: quality, availability, age profile, character. If Liverpool pull it off, they’ve got a defensive partnership for the next five years.