Liverpool are put off by the asking price for Marc Guehi handing Newcastle United the lead in the transfer race
Liverpool have stepped back from their pursuit of Crystal Palace and England centre-back Marc Guehi, allowing Newcastle United to move ahead with a record-breaking deal. According to TEAMtalk, the Reds were confident of securing Guehi but have been put off by the high cost involved.
Newcastle, on the other hand, are progressing in talks with Crystal Palace and are willing to meet the substantial fee required to secure the defender’s services. The Magpies’ willingness to break their transfer record, currently held by Alexander Isak’s £63 million move from Real Sociedad, indicates their determination to bolster their defensive options.
The need for Liverpool to sign a new centre-half has become apparent following the departures and potential exits within their defensive lineup. Joel Matip left the club as a free agent, while Joe Gomez and Sepp van den Berg are also eyeing exits in search of regular playing time. Additionally, Nat Phillips is in the final year of his contract and is expected to leave permanently.
Despite the presence of Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Jarell Quansah, new manager Arne Slot recognizes the necessity for defensive reinforcements. However, the escalating costs associated with signing Guehi have prompted Liverpool to reconsider their options. Originally valued at around £60 million, Crystal Palace’s demand has reportedly risen to £65 million or even £70 million, making the deal less appealing for the Reds.
Liverpool’s decision to back away from Guehi does not mean they have abandoned their plans to strengthen their defence. The Reds are now considering more economical alternatives. But a summer deal for Guehi now appears to be completely out of the question.
The Reds’ cautious approach in the transfer market once again reflects their commitment to financial prudence while still aiming to enhance their squad depth. The return of Michael Edwards and the appointment of Arne Slot have set high expectations for Liverpool’s summer window, and the club is determined to make smart, impactful signings.
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Newcastle are in desperate need of quality additions at centre-back and Guehic certainly fits the bill. With them willing to drop a club record fee to land the defender, there is every reason to believe the Magpies might need to sell one of their best talents. Whether that will lead to us landing Anthony Gordon remains to be seen. It could very well be a case of Edwards playing chess while everyone else were playing checkers.
