Liverpool has reportedly decided to “activate a huge deal” in the January transfer window, amid an “urgent” transfer plan to sign a new centre-back. The Reds are keen on signing Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who has been linked with a move to the club previously. Here’s what’s happening ¹:

Liverpool’s Transfer Plan

– Marc Guehi: Liverpool has been tracking Guehi’s progress and is now planning to make a move for the 22-year-old centre-back in January. Guehi’s contract expires in the summer of 2026, and Palace might struggle to sell him for a significant fee if they don’t agree on a new deal.

– Potential Asking Price: Crystal Palace might demand a colossal fee to sell Guehi mid-season, potentially around £45-£50 million or even £65-70 million.

– Liverpool’s Strategy: Liverpool might take a cautious approach, potentially making a lowball offer or including a player like Ben Doak in a swap deal to drive down the cost. They could also try to reach an agreement in principle with Guehi for a summer move, securing his services without a transfer fee.

Competition from Euro Giants

– Real Madrid and Barcelona: La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona are said to be eyeing Guehi for a January move, adding urgency to Liverpool’s quest to secure the services of the former Chelsea centre-back.

– Transfer Chess: The transfer market has become a game of chess, with clubs leveraging media narratives to spark bidding wars or inflate fees. Palace’s posturing could be a tactic to extract maximum value from Guehi’s sale.

Implications for Liverpool

– Defensive Needs: Liverpool’s defensive lineup has been impacted by injuries, including Giovanni Leoni’s ACL tear, which could make Guehi’s signing more appealing.

– Transfer Priorities: Liverpool’s transfer plans might hinge on their centre-back situation and Guehi’s willingness to join the team mid-season. If they do pursue Guehi, it would likely be a calculated move to address their defensive needs.

By activating a huge deal for Guehi, Liverpool is taking proactive steps to strengthen their squad and potentially prevent European giants from “robbing” them of their target. The Reds’ transfer strategy will be crucial in determining the outcome of this potential deal ¹.