Liverpool are preparing to launch a move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, as they look to bolster their backline ahead of the new season.
With Jarell Quansah poised to join Bayer Leverkusen in a £30 million deal and Ibrahima Konate entering the final year of his contract, the Premier League champions are prioritising a new centre-back signing. Guehi, who is also being monitored by Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Newcastle, has emerged as Liverpool’s top target.
The 23-year-old has just one year remaining on his contract at Selhurst Park, placing Palace in a vulnerable position after previously rejecting offers of up to £70m from Tottenham in January and £65m from Newcastle last summer.
According to The Telegraph, Liverpool are now in the “best position” to secure Guehi’s signature and are preparing a substantial offer to tempt Palace into a sale.
Palace, meanwhile, have started preparing for life after Guehi. The FA Cup winners are in talks with Sporting CP over a potential deal for 21-year-old centre-back Ousmane Diomande as a replacement.
Guehi has remained professional amid speculation about his future, stating ahead of the FA Cup final: “I come in every day and I try to be the same. I try to work hard. This club has given me a lot, and my focus is always here.”
In addition to targeting Guehi, Liverpool are on the verge of wrapping up a £116m deal for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. The German international arrived at the club’s training ground on Friday to complete his medical.
Left-back Milos Kerkez is also set to join Arne Slot’s squad, with Liverpool agreeing a £40m fee with Bournemouth for the Hungarian defender.
As Arsenal continue to assess their centre-back options, Liverpool look set to strike quickly to land Guehi before other rivals can make their move.