Liverpool have opened negotiations with Crystal Palace for club captain Marc Guehi, with the Premier League champions aiming to finalise a transfer worth around £35 million.
The Reds are looking to reinforce their defensive options ahead of the new season and believe Guehi’s leadership qualities and composure at the back fit their plans perfectly.
Guehi, 24, was born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, before moving to England at a young age.
The defender, who has represented England at international level, retains strong Ivorian heritage and is widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers.
With less than a year remaining on his contract, Palace chairman Steve Parish has made it clear the centre-back will be sold in the coming weeks unless he makes a surprise decision to extend his deal.
Guehi’s refusal so far to commit to fresh terms has left Palace in a position where they must act quickly to secure a transfer fee rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer.
According to the Liverpool Echo, discussions between the two clubs have been initiated before Liverpool make direct contact with Guehi, as a gesture of respect between the respective boards.
The Merseyside club is keen to move swiftly to avoid a drawn-out transfer battle.
However, Liverpool’s interest could spark competition from other admirers, most notably Newcastle United, who have been tracking Guehi’s situation closely.
The Magpies are understood to be monitoring developments and could yet challenge Liverpool’s bid.
Palace, meanwhile, are preparing contingency plans in the event of Guehi’s departure, with recruitment staff already identifying possible replacements.
The centre-back’s leadership and defensive resilience have been pivotal for the Eagles, and losing him would mark a significant blow ahead of the upcoming campaign.
