‘Reports suggest…’ – Crystal Palace tempt Liverpool with counter proposal in Marc Guehi negotiations.
Liverpool have finally stepped up their pursuit of Marc Guehi, lodging a £35m bid on Saturday evening after months of speculation, according to The Athletic.
The 25-year-old defender is keen on a move to Anfield, but Crystal Palace have wasted little time in setting their conditions. The Guardian reports that the Eagles have rejected Liverpool’s opening offer and countered with demands for an extra £5m in bonuses plus a 10% sell-on clause. Journalist Ed Aarons added on X that Guehi remains eager to join the Merseysiders.
Palace’s stance
Despite manager Oliver Glasner insisting on Friday that Guehi “has to” remain at Selhurst Park beyond the deadline, the club’s hierarchy appear willing to sanction a deal if their valuation is met. Palace have even lined up a potential replacement, having agreed a £23.4m fee with Toulouse for Jaydee Canvot.
Why Liverpool could push ahead
Unlike Newcastle’s outright dismissal of Liverpool’s approach for Alexander Isak earlier this month, Palace’s response represents an invitation to negotiate. Their counter-offer doesn’t close the door, suggesting a deal could be wrapped up with only a modest improvement on the initial proposal.
Talks between the clubs are said to be cordial, with Liverpool and Palace enjoying a good working relationship. Given Guehi’s qualities—Premier League experience, leadership, homegrown status, and ability to partner Virgil van Dijk—he fits Arne Slot’s needs perfectly.
With the clock ticking towards the 7pm deadline, sporting director Richard Hughes may see little reason not to return with an improved bid to finally seal the transfer.
