Liverpool’s plans for Marc Guehi have taken a strategic turn after the deadline day transfer collapse. Despite agreeing on a £35 million package with Crystal Palace, the deal fell through due to Palace’s concerns about finding a suitable replacement. Now, Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes has adopted a patient approach, choosing to wait until next summer to sign Guehi as a free agent.

Liverpool’s Rationale

– Financial Prudence: By waiting, Liverpool can save £35 million in transfer fees, which can be invested elsewhere in the squad.

– Contract Situation: Guehi’s contract with Crystal Palace ends in June 2026, making him a potential free agent. Liverpool is confident that they can sign him without paying a hefty transfer fee ¹.

Competition for Guehi’s Signature

– Real Madrid and Barcelona: Both Spanish giants are interested in signing Guehi as a free agent next summer. They can offer Guehi a pre-contract agreement from January 1, giving them an edge over Liverpool.

– Other Premier League Clubs: Newcastle and Tottenham are also keeping tabs on Guehi’s situation, potentially willing to meet Palace’s reduced asking price ² ¹.

Implications for Liverpool

– Defensive Strengthening: Signing Guehi would bolster Liverpool’s defense, providing competition for existing players.

– Transfer Strategy: Hughes’ strategy comes with risks, as Liverpool could miss out on Guehi if other clubs offer better deals. However, the potential reward of saving millions in transfer fees makes it an attractive option ¹.

Alternative Targets

– Giovanni Leoni: Liverpool is close to signing Parma’s 18-year-old defender, Giovanni Leoni, who has agreed to a six-year deal. This signing could potentially fill the defensive gap.

– Other Centre-Backs: Liverpool has other centre-backs on their radar, including Wolfsburg’s Konstantinos Koulierakis, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, and Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez ³.