Liverpool are gearing up to make a ‘substantial bid’ for England’s defensive stalwart Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, following the impending sale of Jarell Quansah, as per recent reports.
Quansah is on the verge of sealing a £34million move to Bayer Leverkusen, a deal that would mark a record signing for the Bundesliga giants.
The 22-year-old has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Erik ten Hag’s side, and his Liverpool departure is set to pave the way for the arrival of a new centre-back.
Strengthening the defensive line was already a priority for Arne Slot ahead of the summer transfer window, but Quansah’s exit has now made it an urgent necessity.
Ibrahima Konate’s future remains uncertain amid interest from Real Madrid, while Joe Gomez’s situation is equally unclear.
The Premier League champions are not merely eyeing a squad player; they have identified Crystal Palace captain Guehi as their prime defensive target.
The Telegraph suggests that Liverpool are poised to make a ‘significant offer’ once funds are secured from Quansah’s sale to Leverkusen.
While multiple clubs are vying for Guehi’s signature, the Reds are reportedly ‘best positioned’ to secure the 24-year-old, who is widely expected to depart Selhurst Park this summer.
Despite Palace’s FA Cup triumph last month and their upcoming European campaign, there is seemingly ‘no prospect of a renewal’ for Guehi, who has just one year left on his contract.
Tottenham Hotspur tabled a £70m bid — including add-ons — for Guehi in January, but Palace stood firm, even rejecting the offer with 18 months left on his deal.
His former club Chelsea have also expressed interest in the past, while Newcastle United have long been admirers of the defender.
Although the exact price tag remains undisclosed, Palace are confident of securing a ‘major fee’ for their captain.
A report from The Times adds that Liverpool have ‘shown interest’ in Guehi, with Quansah’s future likely to influence their pursuit.
Guéhi is liked by Liverpool, with circumstances around Quansah, and others, likely to determine whether any interest develops now or they continue to monitor his situation given that he would be available on a free transfer in 12 months.
The uncertainty surrounding Guehi, coupled with the departure of Trevoh Chalobah, who returned to Chelsea mid-season, has prompted Palace to engage in talks with Sporting Lisbon for Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomande.
Diomande is reportedly valued at £40m, which would make him a club-record signing for Palace if the deal materialises.
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