Liverpool’s pursuit of Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi has hit a major roadblock, with European giants Bayern Munich stepping up their interest. As the Reds contemplate a renewed move for the England international, fresh competition is emerging, raising doubts about their chances of securing the defender in 2026.
Bayern Make First Move in Guehi Chase
According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, Bayern Munich have already initiated contact with Guehi’s camp. Sporting director Max Eberl is believed to be a keen admirer, with early discussions reportedly held over a possible free transfer in 2026. That timeline would align with Guehi’s contract expiry at Crystal Palace, although Bayern’s final decision may depend on the futures of Dayot Upamecano and Kim Min-jae.
Plettenberg revealed that Bayern’s interest is now “concrete” and that Liverpool, Barcelona, and Real Madrid are all closely monitoring the situation.
Liverpool’s Failed Summer Move and Future Intentions
Liverpool came close to signing Guehi in the summer transfer window, with a £35 million deal reportedly falling apart while the player was undergoing a medical. The Reds had been aggressive in the market, spending £446 million on eight new signings under new head coach Arne Slot. Yet Guehi slipped through their fingers at the final hurdle.
Despite missing out, Liverpool are still believed to be interested. Injuries to players like Giovanni Leoni could force the club’s hand in January, though insiders suggest a summer move is more likely. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Liverpool are unlikely to return for a centre-back in the winter window unless circumstances change.
Elite Clubs Join the Battle for Guehi
Liverpool’s path to Guehi is far from clear. In addition to Bayern, European powerhouses Barcelona and Real Madrid have reportedly joined the race, and even Manchester City are keeping tabs. The competition underscores Guehi’s growing stature as one of the Premier League’s top defensive talents.
Ornstein emphasized that any future Liverpool move would face stiff opposition from multiple elite clubs, making the task significantly harder than it was during the summer.
Carragher Warns Liverpool Could Regret Inaction
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has voiced his concern that the Reds may have missed their chance to sign Guehi on favorable terms. Speaking in September, Carragher questioned the club’s decision to wait for a free transfer rather than paying a modest fee to secure the player immediately.
“Liverpool always do what they see as value for money,” Carragher said. “But this could come back to bite them. Guehi would’ve added much-needed depth at centre-back—something they’re clearly lacking.”
Carragher also pointed to the risk of relying on injury-prone defenders like Joe Gomez and inexperienced prospects such as Leoni. While Liverpool’s current form is strong, he warned that their thin defensive cover could become a problem as the season progresses.
What’s Next for Liverpool and Guehi?
With Guehi’s stock rising and top clubs circling, Liverpool must decide whether to act decisively in January or risk losing out entirely by waiting for a free transfer. Their strategy so far has been driven by long-term value, but that approach could cost them a player who fills a clear need in their defensive line.
As the January window approaches, the race for Marc Guehi is heating up—and Liverpool are no longer in pole position.
