Liverpool saw a bid for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi rejected on transfer deadline day, but Real Madrid are now in the box seat to sign the English centre-backMatthew Abbott US Sports Writer, Archie Griggs and Will Schofield Senior Sports Reporter
14:29, 31 Oct 2025
Marc Guehi might snub Liverpool for Real Madrid
Real Madrid are reportedly optimistic about landing Marc Guehi, despite interest from Liverpool and the recent involvement of Bayern Munich and Barcelona in the race for his signature.
The reigning Premier League champions made an unsuccessful attempt to sign the Crystal Palace skipper during the summer transfer window.
Guehi, 25, is due to become a free agent at the end of this season. Oliver Glasner, the gaffer at Palace, has already confirmed that his captain will be leaving the south London club next year.
However, a move in the January transfer window seems unlikely, even though it represents the last opportunity for them to secure a transfer fee.
As the new year dawns, Guehi will be able to sign pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs, giving Liverpool’s European rivals an advantage.
Arne Slot is still believed to be keen on bringing Marc Guehi to Anfield(Image: Matt West/Shutterstock)
According to reports, Madrid are under the impression that he favours a move to the Spanish capital, assuming that the defender wants to play alongside Jude Bellingham at both club and international level.
The club reportedly believe they can convince the central defender to pick them over other potential suitors, reports the Express.
Liverpool are said to be keen on signing a central defender during the January transfer window and had plans to approach Guehi in the summer when he would be available on a free transfer.
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After missing out on Guehi, who remains high on the Reds’ wishlist, Slot saw Giovanni Leoni ruled out for the season after suffering a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
Arne Slot fielded a back three consisting of Andy Robertson, Joe Gomez and Wataru Endo during their Carabao Cup fourth-round loss to Palace. Both Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk were completely absent from the matchday squad.
After the game, Slot bemoaned their lack of options, stating they have only 15 senior players available, with academy youngsters filling out the squad.