Marc Guéhi Liverpool deal collapses (Credits: Imago Images)
Liverpool were off to a promising deadline day start with Alexander Isak. Luck was on their side as they were eyeing Crystal Palace captain and defender Marc Guéhi, who was entering the last year of his contract.
Arne Slot was trying to solve a depth problem at Anfield in the back four as Quansah departed for Germany earlier this summer. Left with only three experienced centre-backs, the management was pushing for the £35m deal.
With medicals complete and paperwork in progress, the only piece remaining in the puzzle was Palace’s approval. Although post-deadline, BBC has reported that the deal is off, as The Eagles couldn’t solve their own transfer deadline problems.
“BREAKING: Marc Guehi-Liverpool deal has COLLAPSED. Despite medical done and deal sheet submitted, Crystal Palace don’t approve the move following Igor deal off. Guehi stays at #CPFC”, reported Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on X (formerly Twitter).
A big part of the blame has fallen on Crystal Palace’s failure to sign Igor Julio from Brighton and Hove Albion, as the Brazilian defender has apparently chosen Premier League rivals West Ham United.
As reported by the BBC, The Eagles have managed to find only one replacement for Marc Guéhi in French defender Jaydee Canvot.
Quiz: Can you name the team Liverpool signed these players from?
What now for Liverpool and Marc Guéhi?
This was one of the last bets for The Reds to find an experienced Premier League defender before deadline day. The Reds aren’t short in the starting XI but lack the depth to stay consistent this season.
Crystal Palace had decided to let the Englishman go, given that they would find two replacements. Guéhi was offered an extension, but he has made it clear that staying at Selhurst Park isn’t in his long-term interests.
Arne Slot’s side lost the Community Shield to Crystal Palace as the match went on to penalties. Marc has been exceptional last season, playing a major part in helping the team lift their first major trophy in the form of the FA Cup.
A multi-year deal was close to materialising at Anfield, but both sides will just have to try harder in the winter transfer window. The English international will be even cheaper with just six months left on his contract.
Although The Merseysiders will have to do without and rely on Joe Gomez as backup. Gomez has proven to be worth the salary he pulls at his peak, but injuries have been a major issue throughout his career.
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