Liverpool manager Arne Slot has cast significant doubt over a renewed move for defender Marc Guehi this month, despite Crystal Palace setting a fresh price tag for their captain.
Summer Deal Collapse and Current Stance
The Reds had agreed a £35million deal for the England international on transfer deadline day in September, only for Palace to pull out of the agreement at the very last minute. While Liverpool retain a long-term interest in the 24-year-old, Slot has now publicly backed his existing squad.
"I never talk about transfers in public, let alone talking about a transfer from another club," Slot stated on Wednesday. "My answer is always the same. We don't talk about players that are not ours."
He added: "I am really happy with the squad we have. All the decisions made last summer and the summer before are completely aligned with me, Richard [Hughes] and the ownership. This season has shown how talented this group is."
Palace Open to Sale as Man City Circle
The situation has evolved, however, with one of Liverpool's rival suitors, Manchester City, facing a defensive injury crisis. City have lost key centre-backs Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias to injury, increasing the likelihood of a January move.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner conceded on Tuesday that the club would consider a sale for the right price, with Guehi's contract expiring in June 2026. "If somebody is coming, there will be a moment when the club says, now the financial issue is more important than the sport issue," Glasner admitted.
He set a clear valuation, stating: "I’m not so naive not to know that if a massive offer comes from City and Marc wants to do it, it will happen." Reports suggest that £40million could be enough to secure a deal this month.
Elliott Loan Clause and Liverpool's January Plans
In other Liverpool transfer news, Slot also addressed the situation of Harvey Elliott, who is on loan at Aston Villa. Villa boss Unai Emery has acknowledged they have no plans to play the midfielder enough to trigger a £35m permanent transfer clause.
When asked about a potential recall, Slot was definitive: "Liverpool have no recall option," he confirmed, dashing any immediate hopes of Elliott returning to Anfield this winter.
This all points to a relatively quiet January transfer window for Liverpool, with Slot seemingly content to rely on his current options unless a major opportunity arises, while the battle for Marc Guehi's signature appears to be heating up elsewhere in the Premier League.
