Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi has emerged as a top-tier target for Liverpool, setting the stage for a potential summer transfer battle with London rivals Arsenal.
The pursuit is heating up despite former England captain Wayne Rooney launching a scathing attack on the "ridiculous" fees now commonplace in the modern game, a market that will see Guehi command a premium price.
The Anfield Defensive Hunt
With the era of club legend Virgil van Dijk inevitably drawing towards its close, Liverpool's new manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes are proactively seeking a long-term defensive pillar. Guehi, 23, fits the profile perfectly: a ball-playing, right-footed centre-back with proven Premier League and international pedigree.
His current contract at Selhurst Park has just two years remaining, placing Palace in a precarious negotiating position this summer. While the Eagles value their captain at a staggering £65 million, Liverpool are hopeful a deal can be struck for a figure closer to £50 million.
Rooney's Blunt Transfer Market Verdict
Adding a layer of intrigue to the saga, Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has weighed in on the inflated nature of the market. The former Derby and Birmingham manager didn't hold back, labelling the sums being discussed for players like Guehi as "ridiculous."
His comments highlight the immense financial pressure on top clubs to make multi-million pound gambles on talent, a reality Liverpool are now navigating as they look to secure their defensive future.
Competition from the Capital
Liverpool's path to signing Guehi is far from clear. Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are also long-term admirers of the defender and are known to be in the market for defensive reinforcements. This sets up a classic North West vs North London tug-of-war, with the player's preference and the most compelling project likely to be the deciding factors.
For now, all eyes are on Guehi's recovery from a knee injury that required surgery earlier this year. Once fit, his performances for England at Euro 2024 could see his valuation—and the transfer battle—intensify even further.
