Liverpool are growing increasingly optimistic that they will finally bring Marc Guehi to Anfield in 2026, even after missing out on him in the summer transfer window and ruling out any attempts in January. According to respected transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Merseyside club has crafted a clear long-term strategy to ensure that the England international eventually joins their squad.

The failed deal in the summer was a frustrating one for Liverpool. The Reds had successfully negotiated a package worth €40 million with Crystal Palace, which also included a 10 percent sell-on clause in favor of the Eagles. Guehi had even completed a medical examination and settled personal terms, meaning everything was in place for the transfer to be confirmed. However, the agreement collapsed at the final hurdle when Palace were unable to secure their preferred replacement, the Brazilian defender Igor. With no adequate cover lined up, Palace were unwilling to weaken their backline, forcing Liverpool to abandon the move at the very last minute.

The setback did not diminish Guehi’s value in the transfer market. According to Transfermarkt, the 25-year-old defender is currently valued at €45 million, a reflection of his rising stock in both the Premier League and international football. His price tag highlights why Liverpool are willing to wait patiently until the timing is right.

Rumors soon circulated that Liverpool would reignite their interest in January, especially as Palace were reportedly open to lowering their demands in order to avoid losing the player for free later down the line. Yet insiders close to Anfield have revealed that Liverpool are not planning any winter approach. Instead, their focus is on building a sustainable transfer strategy with 2026 identified as the prime opportunity to seal Guehi’s arrival. This patient approach allows the club to negotiate from a position of strength while maintaining balance in their current squad.

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Guehi’s career trajectory has been remarkable since moving to Selhurst Park. The defender has featured in 161 matches for Crystal Palace, scoring nine goals and providing four assists. His steady performances and composure under pressure have made him one of the most reliable defenders in the league. On the international stage, he has already earned 24 caps for England, further proving his ability to perform at the highest level. Such qualities—leadership, positional awareness, and consistency—make him an attractive option for Liverpool as they look to refresh their defensive ranks.

For Liverpool’s side, acquiring Guehi would not just be about adding depth but about investing in the future of the team. With several senior defenders approaching the twilight of their careers, Liverpool need a player who can anchor their defense for the next decade. Guehi fits this requirement perfectly: still young, yet experienced, and with proven credentials at both club and international level. Fabrizio Romano has reiterated Liverpool’s determination, emphasizing that the Reds remain confident of eventually bringing him to Merseyside.

Although fans were left disappointed when the summer deal collapsed, there is still strong belief within the club that Guehi will wear the Liverpool shirt in the near future. Crystal Palace may be able to delay his departure for now, but it is unlikely they will hold onto such a valuable asset indefinitely. With Guehi himself eager to continue progressing at the very top of the game, a move to Anfield in 2026 seems increasingly inevitable.

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