Marc Guéhi’s transfer saga has taken a definitive turn, with Liverpool emerging as the only realistic destination for the Crystal Palace captain this summer. Sources indicate that Guéhi’s preference is clear, leaving Palace in a challenging position. The south London club had hoped for a bidding war to maximize the transfer fee for their star defender, but with no other serious suitors, they face the prospect of losing him to Liverpool now or for free next summer when his contract expires.
Crystal Palace’s Reluctant Negotiations
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish is reportedly approaching the situation with reluctance, as he would prefer Guéhi to stay and sign a new contract. However, the likelihood of Guéhi extending his deal is slim, forcing Palace to engage in talks with Liverpool. The club initially targeted a £40m fee for their captain, but negotiations suggest a deal closer to £35m plus add-ons is more realistic. If discussions progress smoothly, an agreement could be finalized in the coming days.
Palace’s Limited Options
The scenario is far from ideal for Palace, who are now backed into a corner. Selling Guéhi to Liverpool, even at a slightly reduced price, is preferable to losing him for nothing in 2026. The club’s hopes of retaining their defensive linchpin or sparking an auction have faded, leaving Parish to sanction the sale through gritted teeth. Guéhi’s departure would mark a significant loss for Palace, but securing a transfer fee now may be their only way to mitigate the financial impact.
