Liverpool vs Real Madrid battle for Guéhi takes new turn

Marc Guéhi (Abidjan, Ivory Coast; 2000) is moving further from Spain. The best center-back, in many people’s view, in today’s Premier League is weighing his options for the future, and his next step looks far more likely to be a jump to one of England’s “Big Six” than a transfer across the Channel to the Spanish capital. Liverpool have emerged as clear frontrunners to sign him – though it won’t come cheap. His value keeps climbing with each match for Crystal Palace, and he’s determined not to miss his chance.

Remaining under contract gives him leverage. His current deal expires in June 2026, and he has no plans to renew. That makes him one of the hottest free-agent prospects of next summer. His name has already circulated through boardrooms across Europe – including those at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Real Madrid considered him as a potential alternative to the likes of Ibrahima Konaté, Dayot Upamecano, or William Saliba – before the latter renewed with Arsenal. Yet the player’s high salary demands and signing bonus have made any move to Spain virtually impossible.

Guéhi has more than earned his rising profile. Not just because he’s been one of the standout defenders this season, but because of where he’s done it. Palace, long seen as a mid-table side, have just touched the sky at Wembley by lifting the FA Cup against a fading Manchester City – and adding the Community Shield, the English equivalent of Spain’s Supercopa.

The England international was one of the heroes of that triumph. At 25, his upward trajectory shows no sign of slowing. According to BeSoccer data, he ranks as the second most reliable center-back in the league: in 17 matches – more than any of his peers – he has won 73% of his duels, holds a 57% success rate in aerial battles, averages 9.84 recoveries and 2.76 clearances per game.

Playing the long game

Guéhi, however, intends to take his time before making a decision. With the power firmly in his hands, he knows offers will come. “He wants something different,” said Oliver Glasner, his coach at Palace. Different, in this case, means more competitive. Guéhi wants to fight for titles, earn the global recognition he deserves, and become a key figure. Within that context, Liverpool and Bayern Munich have pulled ahead in the race.

Anfield remains his great dream. Last summer he came close to joining Arne Slot’s squad, but Palace pulled out at the last moment after failing to find a suitable replacement. Glasner even threatened to resign if the deal went through. Should it happen this time, Guéhi would be stepping into the spot left by Konaté – who, in turn, is expected to head to Madrid.

Bayern, for their part, are determined to make a push. They want to compete for England’s most coveted defender, and the move makes sense both financially and on the pitch – especially if Kim Min-jae departs. It’s a marathon rather than a sprint, and there won’t be any clarity until at least January. For now, Guéhi remains fully focused on the present, with Palace fighting for European places and competing in the Europa League. He intends to finish his final chapter in south London on a high.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.