Liverpool receive transfer boost as Crystal Palace eye 'replacement' for Marc Guehi

2
Liverpool are reportedly short of Crystal Palace's valuation for Marc Guehi. The Eagles, meanwhile, are looking to find a replacement for the England international.

Crystal Palace are reportedly considering making a move for Rennes talent Jeremy Jacquet should Marc Guehi join Liverpool this summer.

Guehi has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League champions, but as of now, the Reds have not made any formal offer.

Manchester United reportedly made an approach to sign the Eagles skipper, but it appears that their interest has died down in recent weeks.

The Reds have added Giovanni Leoni from Italian side Parma for a fee of £26m plus add-ons to bolster the defence, but Arne Slot still needs more depth at the back.

Liverpool still short of Palace's valuation of Guehi

Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate remain as the two first-choice defenders at the club, while Joe Gomez and Leoni can serve as backups.

The situation is far from ideal, given Gomez's recent injury struggles and Leoni's inexperience, indicating that Slot requires one more quality and proven central defender at the back.

Guehi is in his final year at Selhurst Park, and Palace are willing to offload him. According to a report from the Independent, there is still a £10m difference in valuation between the two clubs.

Considering his contract situation, the Reds are refusing to pay more than £35m, whereas the Eagles are insistent on £45m. The transfer fee is crucial here because Jacquet would cost around £35m, and the situation has become complicated.

The Reds need Guehi but the saga could drag on

At 34, Van Dijk is still going strong, and he seems to be playing at the peak of his powers.

However, doubts remain over Konate, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid. Even if the Frenchman stays, the Reds need another experienced centre-back, an upgrade on Jarell Quansah, who left the club to join Bayer Leverkusen.

Guehi's tactical versatility to play across the back line has made him a potent weapon for his club and country. At Palace, he is primarily deployed as a left centre-back in a back three by Oliver Glasner, but he has shown great adaptability in a four-man defence while playing for England.

On top of that, he has shown great proficiency in passing and carrying the ball forward from the back, which makes him an excellent asset for sides that are equipped for either high-pressing or counter-attacking football.

Considering his age, contract situation, quality, and ability to adapt to different systems seamlessly, Guehi is perfect fit for Liverpool.

Click here to read article

Related Articles