Liverpool’s January plans have taken a promising turn.
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi has reportedly decided not to consider a January transfer, instead focusing fully on his current club until summer.
According to Sky Sports via FootballTransfers, Guehi won’t entertain a mid-season move or pre-contract talks, preferring to keep his head at Palace. This means he’ll likely revisit his future at the end of the season, when he’ll have the freedom to choose his next club as a free agent.
There’s a strong chance he could favour a move to Liverpool, having already agreed personal terms with the Reds last summer. That existing relationship could make reaching a new agreement much easier this time around.
Why Liverpool is eyeing Marc Guehi
Liverpool’s defensive needs have been evident. Injuries, aging defenders, and inconsistency have left gaps. The club has been linked to multiple centre-backs, and Upamecano has often been namechecked. But Guehi offers something more: a combination of Premier League experience, leadership, and room to grow.
Guehi is currently the captain of Crystal Palace, which shows his stature within his club. His contract runs until 2026, meaning he will be free to move in the summer if Palace can’t tie him down long term.
How Guehi Fits into Liverpool’s System
Liverpool typically plays with a back four or occasionally a back three hybrid, emphasizing high defensive lines, aggressive pressing, and defenders comfortable on the ball. Guehi has the attributes to thrive:
Composure and Ball Skills
He’s comfortable on the ball and can build up play flawlessly — a crucial trait in Slot’s system, which values defenders capable of breaking lines with their passes.
Leadership in High Line
A defender who can marshal the back and maintain concentration is crucial when your defense pushes high. His captaincy at Palace suggests he can handle those responsibilities.
Age and Durability
He’s relatively young, meaning he has several peak years ahead — fewer concerns about decline or burnout when others age.
Versatility
While primarily a centre-back, he can adapt to different defensive pairings or systems, giving Liverpool flexibility.
He would offer more stability compared to rotating less experienced options. He could be a partner to, say, Virgil van Dijk (or his long-term successor) or rotate with younger defensive talent.
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