Liverpool Second Move Blocked as Free Transfer Hopes Emerge
Liverpool's attempt to sign defender Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace on transfer deadline day collapsed at the final stage despite a medical being completed, personal terms agreed, and paperwork prepared. Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish intervened to halt the move, leading Guehi to return to Selhurst Park where he featured in Palace’s first match after the saga.
Guehi showed no public signs of frustration following the blocked transfer. For Liverpool, the failure to secure the defender has prompted a reassessment of defensive options as the club aims to compete at the top of the Premier League.
The situation highlights the complexity of the market for elite central defenders. Liverpool viewed the £35 million deal as a smart investment for a proven Premier League player who was intended to be a long-term defensive partner under manager Arne Slot.
From Crystal Palace’s perspective, retaining Guehi signals a firm stance—Parish was unwilling to approve a late sale without a replacement lined up. Although Liverpool’s recruitment team was frustrated, the collapse may lead to a "Second Move" for Guehi in January or next summer, depending on Palace’s league position and the player’s contract situation.
Amid the transfer drama, reports emerged of a minor internal issue within Liverpool’s squad regarding Slot’s team selection decisions, underscoring the competitive environment within the rebuilt team. Slot, who led Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season, continues to demand high intensity from all players.
Despite a perfect start to the season with three wins, including a statement victory over Arsenal, the Guehi deal shows that even top clubs face setbacks in the transfer market. Supporters may see the collapse as a delay rather than an end, especially given Guehi’s expressed interest in joining Liverpool.
Looking ahead, Liverpool may explore free transfer opportunities and pre-contract arrangements for defenders in Europe whose contracts are nearing expiration. The club’s recruitment strategy emphasizes early identification of targets to reduce risk and ensure squad depth.
For Guehi, the focus returns to Crystal Palace, where he remains a key player. His response to the failed move will be closely monitored, and if Palace struggles in the coming months, pressure may mount to reopen negotiations with Liverpool, making a future transfer appear inevitable.
On the field, Liverpool now turn their attention to an upcoming match against Burnley, where a single point would return them to the top of the Premier League. The team has an opportunity to reaffirm their dominance despite unresolved questions about defensive reinforcements.
