Real Madrid and Barcelona have entered the race for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, potentially challenging Liverpool’s pursuit. Despite this competition, Liverpool has reason to be confident due to Guehi’s previous agreement to join the club. However, if Guehi opts for Spain, Real Madrid could target Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate. Liverpool’s recent successes and growing reputation make them an attractive destination for top players, mitigating concerns about missing out on Guehi.
The transfer market is heating up, and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi finds himself at the center of a tug-of-war involving some of Europe's biggest clubs. According to reports, both Real Madrid and Barcelona are poised to enter the race for the England international, who is expected to be a free agent next summer. This development raises the question: Should Liverpool, who have held a strong interest in Guehi, be worried about the competition from these Spanish giants?
Guehi's desire to leave Crystal Palace has been well-documented, and Liverpool made a significant push to secure his services during the recent summer transfer window. It was reported that the two clubs had even agreed upon a transfer fee, and Guehi had completed his medical. However, the deal fell through at the last minute when Crystal Palace's attempt to find a replacement defender failed. This setback opened the door for other clubs, particularly Real Madrid and Barcelona, known for their ability to attract top talent with the allure of playing for prestigious clubs.
Liverpool remains keen on Guehi and have reason to remain confident. The player had previously agreed to join the Merseyside club, indicating a strong preference for a move to Anfield. To fend off potential interest from Spain, Liverpool might consider making a bid in January to secure Guehi's signature and avoid a free transfer battle next summer.
However, if Guehi chooses to go to Liverpool, it is speculated that Real Madrid could then turn their attention to Ibrahima Konate, another Liverpool defender who is also set to become a free agent next summer. Liverpool is aware of this threat and has reportedly offered Konate a new contract to keep him at the club.
Liverpool has experienced the sting of Real Madrid's interest before. At the end of last season, they lost Trent Alexander-Arnold to the Spanish giants on a free transfer. While Liverpool received a small fee to allow Alexander-Arnold to play in the FIFA Club World Cup, it was hardly a consolation for losing a key player and vice-captain.
Despite these challenges, there are signs that Liverpool's appeal to top players is growing. Guehi's initial decision to join Liverpool despite interest from other clubs, indicates a shift in perception. The club's successful pursuit of Alexander Isak, who joined Liverpool from Newcastle, further underscores this point. Florian Wirtz also reportedly rejected Bayern Munich and showed little interest in Real Madrid, focusing solely on a move to Liverpool. Similarly, Parma agreed to sell teenage defender Giovanni Leoni to Liverpool after initially rejecting other offers.
Under the guidance of Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool broke Manchester City's dominance in English football, winning the 2019/20 Premier League title and reaching three Champions League finals, winning one in 2019. Arne Slot, who replaced Klopp, continued this success, leading the team to a record-equalling 20th league title in his first season.
While there is still work to be done by CEO Michael Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes, the evidence suggests that many top players view Liverpool as the final piece needed to complete their careers. They recognize that at Liverpool, they have the opportunity to win major trophies.
So, should Liverpool be worried about Real Madrid and Barcelona's pursuit of Guehi?
Perhaps a little, but certainly not panic. The Reds have made a strong case to Guehi and other top targets, and if Guehi chooses a different path, Liverpool will have other options. The club's recent success and growing reputation make them an attractive destination for talented players, ensuring that they will continue to compete at the highest level.