Liverpool’s summer transfer business has taken a dramatic turn with growing indications that the club is now seriously pursuing Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi. As the Arne Slot era gathers momentum at Anfield, the 24-year-old defender has emerged as a top target to bolster Liverpool’s defensive options ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Following the Premier League triumph that marked the end of Jurgen Klopp’s reign, new manager Arne Slot is looking to reshape the squad in his own image. While Slot’s early window business has included only a handful of key arrivals, including Jeremie Frimpong and the club-record signing of Florian Wirtz, the Reds are not done yet. The search for a reliable centre-back has now led them to south London.

Guehi, who has just one year remaining on his Crystal Palace contract, is believed to be high on Liverpool’s wishlist. With Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez also closing in on a move, the Reds have moved swiftly to position themselves for a bid on Guehi—who has proven himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders in recent seasons.

Reports suggest Liverpool’s interest intensified after it became clear that Jarell Quansah could be heading out the door. The promising youngster impressed last season but has found minutes hard to come by under Slot and is now on the verge of joining Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.

That potential departure has opened the door for Guehi, who played a key role in England’s run to the Euro 2024 final. Known for his composure, aerial dominance, and intelligent reading of the game, Guehi has developed into a leader at Palace since his £18 million move from Chelsea in 2021. His performances have drawn praise across the board, with Newcastle and Tottenham both seeing bids rejected for him in the past.

Despite the transfer buzz, Guehi has remained professional and measured in his response to speculation. In an interview conducted around the time of the FA Cup final, he reiterated his commitment to Crystal Palace while leaving the door open for future possibilities.

“I think the most important thing is just always doing the best that I can for this football club,” Guehi said. “I come in every day and I try to be the same. I try to work hard. This football club has given me a lot.”

He added, “I’m still under contract at this football club, so my focus is always here. For me, the most important thing is just doing the best I can and seeing where the future holds.”

Crystal Palace may now be in a difficult position. With just 12 months left on his deal, the club risks losing Guehi for nothing next summer if they fail to sell him now. Liverpool, with their recent transfer success and new competitive edge under Slot, are poised to take advantage of the situation.

While Guehi has not submitted a transfer request, sources close to the player suggest that he would be open to a move to Anfield. The allure of Champions League football, a title-contending squad, and working under a fresh tactical system under Slot all represent significant incentives.

If a deal materializes, it is expected that Liverpool will pay north of £40 million for the England international. Such a fee would reflect his market value, Premier League experience, and international pedigree. The move could also have significant ripple effects within the squad.

Ibrahima Konaté’s future has come under increasing scrutiny amid Liverpool’s interest in Guehi. Talks over a new deal have reportedly stalled, and the French centre-back has attracted interest from Real Madrid. With Trent Alexander-Arnold already set for a nominal-fee move to the Spanish capital, there is growing belief that Liverpool may look to cash in on Konaté while they can.

Guehi’s arrival would likely offer Liverpool stability in defence, providing a long-term partner for Virgil van Dijk or potentially taking over as a first-choice option should the Dutchman begin to wind down his playing career. Guehi’s leadership qualities, combined with his proven ability in England’s top flight, make him a compelling target.

For Crystal Palace, losing their captain would be a blow, but the club has been preparing for such an eventuality. They are expected to reinvest any funds received into strengthening the squad in multiple areas, including centre-back and midfield.

Liverpool fans, meanwhile, have responded with excitement at the prospect of Guehi’s signing. With the team aiming to defend their Premier League title and mount a serious Champions League campaign, the addition of a reliable, top-tier defender is seen as essential.

While nothing has been finalized yet, the growing noise around the deal suggests that Liverpool are serious about wrapping this up quickly. Guehi could very well become the next statement signing in a transformative summer window at Anfield.

As the transfer window unfolds, one thing is certain: Liverpool are not standing still. And if all goes according to plan, Marc Guehi could be wearing the famous red shirt before the month is over