Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace’s manager, played a crucial role in forcing Marc Guehi to stay at the club despite having a £35 million deal agreed with Liverpool. Here’s what happened ¹ ²:

– Glasner’s Threat: Glasner threatened to quit Crystal Palace if Marc Guehi was sold out from under him. This bold move gave the club’s board little choice but to reconsider the transfer.

– Deal Already Agreed: A £35 million deal had been agreed upon between Liverpool and Crystal Palace for Guehi’s transfer. Guehi had even undergone a medical in London as part of the transfer process.

– Glasner’s Opposition: Glasner had been opposed to selling Guehi from the start, and his desire to keep the defender was further emboldened after the £68 million sale of Eberechi Eze to Arsenal.

– Boardroom Battle: Glasner’s threat led to a boardroom battle, with CEO Steve Parish wanting to sell Guehi for financial reasons. However, Glasner’s ultimatum seems to have won out, and the transfer was ultimately cancelled.

Glasner’s Commitment to Guehi

– Glasner’s Previous Statements: Glasner had previously emphasized the importance of keeping Guehi at Crystal Palace. He stated that finding a suitable replacement for Guehi would be “almost impossible”.

– Guehi’s Importance: Guehi is a key player for Crystal Palace, and Glasner’s commitment to keeping him demonstrates his faith in the defender’s abilities.

Impact on Crystal Palace

– Financial Implications: By not selling Guehi, Crystal Palace may have to reconsider their financial plans. The club had reportedly been looking to use the £35 million transfer fee to address other areas of the squad.

– Guehi’s Future: Guehi’s future at Crystal Palace now seems secure, at least for the time being. However, with one year left on his contract, the club may still face pressure to sell him in the future.

Liverpool’s Next Steps

– Alternative Targets: Liverpool may now look to alternative targets to strengthen their defense. With Alexander Isak already joining the club, the Reds may prioritize other areas of the squad.

– Guehi’s Contract Situation: Liverpool may still try to sign Guehi in the future, especially with one year left on his contract. The club may look to negotiate a deal or wait until Guehi becomes a free agent.