Liverpool are on the brink of pulling off a sensational transfer coup, reportedly nearing a £100 million deal for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi, a move that has stunned rivals Manchester United. The 24-year-old England international centre-back, who has agreed personal terms for a five-year contract, is set for a medical at Anfield on June 28, 2025, according to sources close to the club.
The transfer, poised to break the world record for a defender, surpassing Manchester United’s £80 million signing of Harry Maguire in 2019, marks a dramatic victory for the Reds in the race for Guéhi’s signature.
Guéhi, Palace’s captain, was a prime target for United, who saw him as a key addition alongside their £62.5 million signing of Matheus Cunha and ongoing talks for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. Liverpool’s aggressive move, driven by sporting director Richard Hughes, capitalizes on United’s financial constraints after their £110 million outlay for Viktor Gyökeres. Guéhi’s 102 ball recoveries, 56 clearances, and 88% pass accuracy last season, combined with his leadership during England’s Euro 2024 campaign, make him an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s possession-based system.
The Reds’ urgency stems from a defensive crisis, with Ibrahima Konaté potentially leaving as a free agent in 2026, Andy Robertson sidelined by an ACL injury, and Jarell Quansah sold to Bayer Leverkusen for £35 million.
The £100 million fee, including add-ons, reflects Palace’s firm stance, as Guéhi’s contract nears its final year. Liverpool’s financial flexibility, bolstered by Quansah’s sale and a new Adidas kit deal, allowed them to outmaneuver United, who were limited by Profit and Sustainability Rules and a £10 million Adidas penalty for missing Champions League football.
Social media is abuzz with United fans’ frustration, one posting, “Liverpool snatching Guéhi for £100m? We’ve been outdone again!” Liverpool supporters, meanwhile, are ecstatic, with one writing, “Guéhi and van Dijk? Unbreakable backline!”
The transfer, part of Liverpool’s £287 million summer spree alongside Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, and Freddie Woodman, signals their intent to dominate the Premier League and Champions League.
United’s pursuit of Eberechi Eze, against Ruben Amorim’s wishes, further highlights their disarray, while Liverpool’s decisive move for Guéhi—potentially the most expensive defender ever—underscores their ruthless ambition. An official announcement is expected soon, leaving United scrambling to regroup.
