Liverpool are reportedly lining up a surprise move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi as they brace for potential defensive changes ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
With Ibrahima Konate now linked with a move to Real Madrid and his contract set to expire in 2026, Liverpool are already making preparations in case of his departure.
According to reports, Liverpool are set to test Palace’s resolve with an opening bid of around £30m—far below the Eagles’ £70m valuation of the England international. However, it is believed that Palace may accept an offer closer to £40m, especially since Guehi has just one year remaining on his current deal and no extension is currently in sight.
Marc Guehi has been a standout performer for Palace since joining from Chelsea for £20m in 2021. He has made 155 appearances, scoring eight goals and assisting four, and even captained the side to FA Cup glory in the 2024–25 season. The 24-year-old has also become a regular in Gareth Southgate’s England squad, earning 23 caps and positioning himself as a likely candidate for the 2026 World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel.
Although Guehi has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Liverpool, convincing him to leave a guaranteed starting role at Selhurst Park could prove difficult. If Konate stays for one more season, Guehi might find himself playing backup to Virgil van Dijk and Konate, making the move less attractive unless game time is assured.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are believed to be lining up Ousmane Diomande of Sporting Lisbon as a potential replacement for Guehi. Palace are under no immediate financial pressure to sell but may decide to cash in now to avoid losing their star defender for free in 2026.
The outcome may depend on whether Liverpool increase their offer to match Palace’s expectations and how the Konate situation develops. For now, a summer transfer tug-of-war appears to be on the horizon.