Liverpool could end up paying Chelsea millions this summer due to a clever transfer clause included in a 2021 deal.

Liverpool are reportedly preparing a major bid for one of their key summer targets as they look to replace Jarell Quansah – a move that could end up benefiting Chelsea.

Anfield has been a hive of activity this summer. After completing the signing of right-back Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool also broke their transfer record to land Florian Wirtz from the same club in a deal worth an initial £100 million, rising to £116 million with add-ons.

Now, the Premier League champions are said to be closing in on Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez, valued at £45 million. Meanwhile, centre-back Quansah is reportedly in advanced talks over a move to Leverkusen. Liverpool are seeking up to £40 million for the 22-year-old but are close to settling on a fee of £30 million plus £5.5 million in bonuses, per Sky Sports.

As for who could replace Quansah, The Telegraph reports that Liverpool are readying a substantial offer for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi. The 23-year-old, who has just a year left on his deal at Selhurst Park, is still expected to fetch a sizeable transfer fee. Back in January, Palace turned down a £55 million bid plus £15 million in add-ons from Tottenham.

This time, however, Liverpool are believed to be leading the race for Guehi’s signature – and a move would see Chelsea receive a financial boost, thanks to a 20% sell-on clause they inserted when selling him to Palace for £18 million in 2021. If Guehi is sold for around £40 million, Chelsea could receive as much as £8 million.

Palace also rejected multiple offers for the defender from Newcastle and Tottenham earlier this year.

Asked about his future around the time of the FA Cup final, Guehi remained tight-lipped, reaffirming his dedication to Crystal Palace:
“I think the most important thing is just always doing the best that I can for this football club. I come in every day and I try to be the same. I try to work hard. This football club has given me a lot. I’m still under contract here, so my focus is on the club.”

He added: “For me, the priority is giving my best and letting the future unfold.”