Liverpool have reached an agreement with Crystal Palace to sign England defender Marc Guehi for an initial £35 million, though the transfer faces delays as the London club scrambles to secure replacements.
The 25-year-old center-back underwent a medical in London on Monday and is poised to sign a long-term contract with the Premier League champions. However, Palace have yet to formally approve the move due to complications in acquiring defensive cover. Their primary target, Igor Julio, opted for West Ham, prompting the Eagles to sign Toulouse teenager Jaydee Canvot on a four-year deal.
Guehi, who captained Palace to a 3-0 victory over Aston Villa on Sunday in his 162nd and likely final appearance for the club, remained tight-lipped post-match: "People will highlight my goal, but tonight’s performance was a collective effort," he stated.
The deal marks Liverpool’s second major deadline-day acquisition after agreeing to a £125 million move for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. Combined with seven other signings—including Hugo Ekitike and Jeremie Frimpong—the Reds’ total summer expenditure approaches a record-breaking £451.2 million, surpassing Chelsea’s 2023 spending of £401.2 million.
Liverpool’s defensive overhaul comes after early-season struggles, having conceded six goals in three league matches. Guehi’s arrival follows Jarrell Quansah’s departure to Bayer Leverkusen and aims to stabilize their backline.
Palace, meanwhile, continue pursuing Getafe’s Christantus Uche as their second defensive target. The South London club also confirmed striker Odsonne Edouard’s permanent transfer to Lens.
Guehi leaves Palace after four seasons, having lifted the FA Cup and secured European qualification. His pivotal role in England’s Euro 2024 campaign cemented his status as one of the league’s top defenders, making him a priority for Liverpool’s revamped squad.
Additional reporting by deadline-day correspondents.
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