Liverpool are reportedly preparing to make a £65m bid for Crystal Palace defender Mark Guehi during the January transfer window.
According to what was reported by a Spanish newspaper TransfersThe Reds are keen to strengthen their defensive ranks as they aim to maintain their exceptional level under the leadership of coach Arne Slott.
Currently top of the Premier League and excelling in both the Champions League and domestic competitions, Liverpool will be looking to strengthen their squad to maintain their dominance in the second half of the season.
Mark Guehi has established himself as one of the most promising defensive talents in the Premier League. The 24-year-old joined Crystal Palace from Chelsea in 2021 for £18m and has since become a vital player in the Eagles' backline.
This season, Guehi participated in 22 matches in all competitions, showing his defensive reliability and contributing attackingly with two goals and an assist. His impressive performances for club and country have raised his profile, particularly his key role in England's run to the Euro 2024 final.
With his contract running until 2026 and a market valuation of €45m, Crystal Palace are expected to demand a higher fee than Liverpool's initial announced £65m offer, making mid-season negotiations difficult.
However, Crystal Palace are said to be demanding a higher fee than Liverpool's initial offer, highlighting the challenge of securing his services midway through the season.
Liverpool see Mark Guehi as the long-term solution to the defence
Liverpool's interest in Guehi comes amid growing concerns about their defensive depth. While the squad includes experienced options such as Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahim Konate and Joe Gomez, injuries and contract situations have raised alarms.
Van Dijk's contract is in its final year, the club have yet to agree a new deal for him yet, and Konate's knee injury since November has left the backline stretched.
Adding to their concerns was that Joe Gomez, who had been in fine form, suffered another injury during Liverpool's 5-0 win over West Ham. The injury is set to rule him out of several matches including crucial games against Manchester United and Tottenham, leaving the Reds weak at the back.
Young talent Jarrell Quansah has shown promise, but Liverpool are keen to secure a long-term solution. Signing Goehi will not only address their immediate concerns, but will also provide a solid foundation for the future.
Mark Guehi: The most in-demand centre-back in the Premier League at the moment
Liverpool are not the only club competing for Guehi. Newcastle United made several offers for the defender last summer, reportedly offering nearly £65 million. but, Crystal Palace rejected the offers, valuing Guehi at around £70m.
Reports suggest that Newcastle are preparing to renew their interest in January, with club director Paul Mitchell personally keen to secure the defender's services.
Aside from the Magpies, Manchester United and Chelsea are also linked with a move for Guehi. It is reported that the Red Devils are willing to pay a large sum for him in a bid to try He made him their first signing under Ruben Amorim.
With several clubs expected to compete for Guehi, Liverpool will face stiff competition, according to a recent report from The sun It is suggested that the player made Anfield his favourite, giving the Reds a boost in their pursuit.
The European giants are in talks with Liverpool to sign the star on loan in January
