Liverpool prepare a transfer for Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi
Liverpool has been the best defensive team in the first division this season with only 13 goals conceded and much of that credit belongs to the magnificent form of Virgil van Dijk. The Dutchman has started every one of his games in the English top flight and has arguably been the best central defender in the competition since the start of the campaign.
However, his contract at Anfield expires at the end of 2024/25 and although there have been talks about a possible renewal, it is no secret that the club needs to start planning for life after the former Southampton star. With that in mind, the Reds are prepared to spend big money on landing a centre-back next summer.
According to Liverpool Echo (citing Mirror)have identified Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi as a possible signing. English was subject to transfer speculation also in the summer when Newcastle UnitedEdit showed a desire to sign him, but an asking price of £70 million from the Eagles meant the Magpies pulled out of talks over his transfer.
Chelsea have also shown interest in the incorporation of Guehi looking ahead to next summer, since Enzo Maresca is interested in renewing his defensive line with the blues They are betting on winning their first Premier League title since 2017 sooner rather than later. It is true that Liverpool face tough competition, but they should lead the race ahead of Chelsea.
Liverpool a more attractive destination
Chelsea have a host of central defenders at the club and despite Marc Guehi's huge potential, there is bound to be a serious race for places in the starting XI. Furthermore, they are characterized by changing coaches in rapid succession, so there would be no guarantee for the defender to join a long-term sporting project.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are planning an instant success with Arne Slot. Guehi will also have a starting role in the team, possibly alongside Van Dijk in the heart of the backline before replacing him completely and leading the defence. As a result, there is certainly a better chance of his qualities being fully realized with a transfer to Anfield rather than Stamford Bridge.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace's financial demands to sell Guehi are also likely to be reduced next summer and could reasonably fall below the £70m mark they were seeking earlier this year, as the defender's contract enters in his final year while ruling out a possible relegation for the Eagles. it would only make Liverpool's search for Virgil van Dijk's replacement an easier proposition.
