Could Liverpool Beat Unexpected Rivals to Land Marc Guehi?

The race to secure Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi has intensified, with Liverpool and Manchester City vying for the 25-year-old's signature as the transfer window approaches its deadline. Guehi, whose contract is expiring next summer, has attracted significant interest from several Premier League clubs, prompting Palace chairman Steve Parish to consider selling him to avoid a free transfer. This article will explore the implications of Guehi's potential move, the current state of Crystal Palace's squad, and what it means for the teams involved.

Last updated: 30 August 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Marc Guehi is in the final year of his contract with Crystal Palace.
• Liverpool is currently leading the race for Guehi's signature.
• Manchester City may enter the bidding if they offload current defenders.
• Palace manager Oliver Glasner is keen to retain Guehi for upcoming matches.
• The potential transfer could significantly impact Crystal Palace's defensive line.

Current Situation of Marc Guehi

Marc Guehi has emerged as one of the most coveted defenders in the Premier League, thanks to his robust performances for Crystal Palace. The 25-year-old centre-back, who has reportedly drawn interest from various clubs, is now in a precarious position as he approaches the final year of his contract. This situation has led to increased speculation about his future, especially with Liverpool and Manchester City both expressing keen interest.

Interest from Premier League Giants

Liverpool has positioned itself as the frontrunner in the race to sign Guehi, keen to bolster their defensive options ahead of the new season. They currently rely heavily on first-choice defenders Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, but depth in the squad remains a concern. Joe Gomez has been inconsistent due to injury issues, making Guehi an appealing target.

On the other hand, Manchester City, known for their depth in defence, may still make a bid for Guehi if they can arrange the sale of either Manuel Akanji or Nathan Ake. Reports suggest that Akanji could be on his way to Galatasaray, while Ake has been linked with a move to Everton. A shift in either player's status could open the door for City to pursue Guehi more aggressively.

Implications for Crystal Palace

The potential departure of Guehi poses significant challenges for Crystal Palace and manager Oliver Glasner. Having already lost key player Eberechi Eze to Arsenal, the club is faced with the prospect of losing another vital member of their squad. Glasner has publicly expressed his desire to retain Guehi at least until the second leg of the Europa Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad. Without Guehi, the team could face significant difficulties, especially as they cannot register new players for the competition at this time.

The Need for New Signings

Glasner has made it clear that if Palace is to remain competitive, new signings will be essential. He has stated, “It is my duty as manager to tell the owners what we have to do to be competitive and stay on our pathway.” This sentiment reflects the urgency of the situation. As Guehi's potential exit looms, Palace must act quickly to identify suitable replacements to maintain their squad's integrity and performance levels.

Guehi's Career and Performance

Marc Guehi has established himself as a solid defender since joining Crystal Palace. His ability to read the game, coupled with impressive tackling and aerial skills, has made him a key player for the Eagles. Guehi’s versatility allows him to play both centrally and as a full-back, making him an attractive addition to any squad. His recent performances have been instrumental in Palace's defensive setups, and securing his services would undoubtedly be a boon for either Liverpool or Manchester City.

What Happens Next?

As the transfer deadline approaches on 1 September, the situation surrounding Guehi is fluid. Liverpool remains the leading contender for his signature, but with Manchester City potentially entering the fray, it adds a layer of complexity. Should either club succeed in securing Guehi, it would not only bolster their defensive line but also impact Palace's strategy moving forward.

The coming days are crucial, and it will be interesting to see how Palace navigates this turbulent period while also preparing for their upcoming matches. Guehi's decision will likely depend on assurances of playing time and the overall direction of the clubs vying for his talents.

Conclusion

As the transfer window nears its conclusion, the race for Marc Guehi's signature highlights the ongoing shifts within the Premier League. With Liverpool and Manchester City both keen to strengthen their squads, Guehi's future remains uncertain. The implications of his potential transfer may not only affect the clubs involved but also the dynamics of the league as a whole. As football fans, we can only wait and see how this story unfolds. Will Guehi make the move to Anfield or the Etihad, or will he stay put and continue his development at Crystal Palace? Only time will tell.

FAQs

What clubs are interested in signing Marc Guehi?

Currently, Liverpool and Manchester City are the main clubs interested in signing Marc Guehi, with Newcastle, Chelsea, and Tottenham also having shown interest in the past.

Why is Crystal Palace looking to sell Guehi?

Crystal Palace aims to sell Guehi as he enters the final year of his contract. The club prefers to cash in on him rather than risk losing him for free next summer.

What impact would Guehi's departure have on Crystal Palace?

Guehi's departure could significantly weaken Palace's defence, especially following the loss of Eberechi Eze. Manager Oliver Glasner has expressed concerns about the team's competitiveness without key players.

When is the transfer deadline for Guehi's potential move?

The transfer deadline is set for 1 September. Clubs must finalise any deals before this date to secure new players for the upcoming season.

What are the chances of Guehi moving to Liverpool?

While Liverpool is currently leading the race for Guehi's signature, the situation remains dynamic, especially with Manchester City potentially entering the bidding war.