Liverpool are reportedly operating on a 'gentleman's agreement' to finally secure the signing of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, but a significant hurdle remains before the deal can be completed.
The Agreement and the Impending Deadline
According to Sky Sports, the Reds have an informal understanding with the player after a proposed move collapsed last summer when Palace pulled out of negotiations. However, the landscape is set to change dramatically in the new year. From 1st January 2026, Guehi will be free to speak to overseas clubs and sign a pre-contract agreement, as he enters the final six months of his deal at Selhurst Park.
This leaves Liverpool with a critical decision. They can either attempt to negotiate a fee with Palace to bring the England international to Anfield in the January window, or risk waiting until the summer when he would be available on a free transfer, potentially facing stiff competition from other suitors.
European Interest and Liverpool's Defensive Need
The risk of waiting is considerable, with some of Europe's elite clubs showing strong interest. Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are both credited with an interest in doing a deal, while Barcelona's need for a new centre-back following Andreas Christensen's injury could prompt them into action.
For Liverpool, reinforcing their backline is a top priority for 2026. The anticipated departure of Ibrahima Konate when his contract expires in the summer has heightened the need for a quality addition. Manager Arne Slot's immediate focus, however, remains on the pitch. Speaking ahead of Saturday's clash with Wolves, Slot said, "My only thoughts are on the upcoming two games... That is where my focus is."
Injury Issues and Loan Recall Ruled Out
The weekend injury to striker Alexander Isak had threatened to shift Liverpool's transfer priorities, but the central defensive requirement remains paramount. Slot also definitively ruled out the possibility of recalling Harvey Elliott from his season-long loan at Aston Villa, stating the midfielder is Villa's player for the campaign.
As the January window approaches, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Liverpool can convert their gentleman's agreement with Marc Guehi into a formal signing, or if another European heavyweight will swoop in to claim the highly-rated Palace captain's signature.
