Marc Guehi training with Crystal Palace during the 2025/26 Premier League season. Photo by JPIMedia/Getty Images.
Credit: JPIMedia/Getty Images
Liverpool are expected to return for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi in January 2026 with a reduced £25 million bid, following their failed £35 million summer attempt that collapsed when Palace couldn’t secure a replacement.
Liverpool Expected to Renew Marc Guehi Pursuit with Reduced £25m January Bid
Liverpool are widely expected to renew their pursuit of Marc Guehi during the January 2026 transfer window, with reports suggesting a significantly reduced fee of around £25 million for the Crystal Palace centre-back. The Reds had agreed a £35 million deal plus £10 million in add-ons during summer 2025, with Guehi even completing his medical, before Crystal Palace withdrew because they could not secure a suitable replacement defender before the deadline.
The potential 30% price discount reflects Guehi’s contract situation, as the England international enters the final year of his Crystal Palace deal expiring in summer 2026. Sources indicate the defender has declined to renew his contract at Selhurst Park, signalling his desire to move to a bigger club. However, conflicting reports have emerged regarding Liverpool’s January strategy, with some suggesting the club may rule out a winter move and instead wait until summer 2026 for a free transfer.
Crystal Palace’s position remains unchanged from the summer, with the club reportedly unwilling to sanction Guehi’s departure without securing a replacement. The Eagles are understood to be pursuing Chelsea’s Axel Disasi as a potential successor should their captain leave in January. Liverpool’s interest stems from their desire to bolster defensive depth under manager Arne Slot, particularly as insurance against potential contract complications with existing centre-backs.
The transfer landscape has become increasingly complex with recent reports suggesting Guehi may prefer a move to Real Madrid over Liverpool if multiple options emerge in January. This development introduces additional uncertainty to Liverpool’s pursuit, despite their demonstrated willingness to invest significantly in the 24-year-old defender. The financial considerations remain attractive for Liverpool, with the reduced January fee potentially easing Financial Fair Play constraints compared to their original summer outlay.
No official statements have been issued by Liverpool, Crystal Palace, or Guehi’s representatives regarding January plans, with the consensus based on media analysis rather than confirmed club positions. The situation remains fluid heading into the winter window, with Liverpool’s final decision likely dependent on squad performance, injury situations, and competition from European rivals who are also monitoring Guehi’s contract situation closely.
