Premier League Star is Determined to Join Liverpool in 2026 – Report

Liverpool’s Persistence Could Pay Off in Marc Guehi Pursuit

Liverpool’s interest in Marc Guehi continues to gather momentum, with TEAMtalk reporting that the England international remains determined to make Anfield his next home. The Reds came within touching distance of completing a deal on deadline day, only for Crystal Palace to pull out at the last minute after failing to secure a replacement. Despite the setback, Liverpool’s intent has not wavered and a January move cannot be dismissed.

Guehi’s Determination to Join Liverpool

Guehi, capped 25 times by England, has reportedly made joining Liverpool his “number one priority” and is willing to turn down interest from other clubs, including his former side Chelsea. Journalist Simon Phillips confirmed: “Marc Guehi is a player that Chelsea would like to sign, and he is universally liked by everyone at the club. However, the club have pretty much walked from that one because he is dead set on joining Liverpool and was never that keen to return to Chelsea anyway.”

This strong desire from Guehi gives Liverpool significant leverage. Palace may face a dilemma, either accept a reduced fee in January or risk losing their captain for nothing next summer.

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January Move Cannot Be Ruled Out

Transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher explained that “sources have told TEAMtalk that suggestions that Liverpool will wait until Guehi’s contract expires in the summer of 2026, making him a free agent, may be misguided, as transfer chess pieces are already in motion.”

La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona are reportedly monitoring Guehi, potentially forcing Liverpool to act sooner rather than later. TEAMtalk suggest that a “calculated lowball offer in January” could tempt Palace into accepting less than their preferred valuation. Alternatively, Liverpool could agree terms with Guehi in January for a free summer move, effectively removing rival clubs from the equation.

Slot Addresses Transfer Frustration

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has openly admitted his disappointment at missing out on Guehi during the summer window. Speaking on the One on One podcast, he said: “At Liverpool, we have so many good players, so we would have liked to sign him. That’s out in the open, so I’m not going to deny that.

“But I also know, and knew, that we have very good options in that position as well. But we are a club that, if we see an opportunity in the market and we can sign a very good player, we are always trying to do so. For us, it was, of course, a disappointment, but for the player, I assume as well, because he was expecting to come to us.”

Slot’s comments underline Liverpool’s strategy of remaining patient but prepared, ensuring that Guehi feels valued and wanted by the club ahead of any future move.

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Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy

Liverpool have been praised for their methodical and data-driven recruitment approach. In Guehi’s case, the club’s willingness to walk away last summer while staying engaged highlights their discipline. Palace’s stance may soften in January, particularly if Guehi signals his refusal to extend his contract. TEAMtalk’s reporting indicates Liverpool hold the upper hand, especially given Guehi’s commitment to making the switch to Anfield.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will welcome this latest update with cautious optimism. The club’s defensive recruitment over the past few years has been calculated, and Guehi appears to be the ideal long-term partner for Virgil van Dijk’s eventual successor. His age profile, Premier League experience and leadership credentials make him a perfect fit for Arne Slot’s system, which relies on centre-backs comfortable in possession and capable of defending high up the pitch.

The possibility of a January move feels tantalising, particularly given the interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona. Many supporters would rather see Liverpool act early, even if it means paying a fee, to avoid a bidding war in the summer. Fans also recognise that Guehi’s commitment to joining Liverpool is rare in a market where players often chase the biggest payday.

With the club competing on multiple fronts, adding another top-level centre-back could provide the depth needed to sustain a title defence and a Champions League run. Supporters will trust Michael Edwards and the recruitment team to play this one smartly, but there is growing excitement that Guehi will be wearing red sooner rather than later.