Report: Crystal Palace's Manuel Akanji bid sparks Marc Guehi to Liverpool move

The Reds have been actively seeking a new centre-back to bolster their squad before the transfer window slams shut on September 1.Despite securing Parma's Giovanni Leoni earlier this month, Liverpool view the young defender as a future star, potentially replacing Virgil van Dijk or Ibrahima Konate in the long term.

Guehi, however, is seen as a player who could challenge for a starting spot immediately, adding depth and quality to the Reds' backline. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the deal remains very much alive, stating, "Liverpool have agreed personal terms with Marc Guehi. Negotiations are underway with Palace for a fee around 35 million pounds as a total package, deal could be done soon."

Romano also emphasized Guehi's desire for a new challenge, noting, "Guehi has a clear intention not to sign any new deal and to try a new chapter, and that Liverpool are his favorite destination." Crystal Palace, however, have been reluctant to let their captain go without a replacement.

Their chairman, Steve Parish, has said, "If Marc wants to sign a new contract, he can stay. It's a difficult situation. Everyone has to sell players to comply with the rules."

The key to unlocking Guehi's move could lie with Manchester City. Reports indicate that Crystal Palace have made an ambitious 15-million-pound bid, including bonuses, for City's out-of-favor defender Manuel Akanji.

The 30-year-old, who has been sidelined at the Etihad, could serve as a direct replacement for Guehi, whose contract expires in 2026. This move has sparked speculation that Palace are preparing for life after Guehi, especially as they face the risk of losing him for free next summer.

Manchester City's interest in Guehi has also surfaced, with reports suggesting they could enter the race if they offload Akanji or Nathan Ake.

However, Romano clarified on August 26, that despite City's rumored interest, "Guehi wants Liverpool, talks are still ongoing for a deal to happen before the end of the window." This keeps Liverpool in the driver's seat, though Palace's firm stance on their valuation, reportedly around 45 million pounds, has slowed negotiations.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has expressed concerns about losing Guehi before their Europa Conference League play-off second leg against Fredrikstad, stating, "If Marc leaves, we will have big troubles. We can't register anyone. So from my side, he has to stay."

With the transfer deadline looming, the coming days will be crucial for Liverpool to finalize a deal and avoid missing out on their top defensive target.