Marc Guehi to Liverpool takes twist as real reason emerges for failed transfer

The long-anticipated transfer of Marc Guehi to Liverpool has taken a shocking twist, with new reports revealing the true reason behind the collapse of the move. For weeks, Liverpool fans had been eagerly awaiting the defender’s arrival at Anfield, confident that the deal was all but sealed. However, what once looked like a done deal has now turned into one of the biggest transfer mysteries of the season.

According to sources close to the negotiations, the Reds were very close to completing a deal for the Crystal Palace centre-back before last-minute complications emerged. Initially, many believed the talks broke down due to financial disagreements, but insider reports now suggest the real reason was far more complex — involving long-term planning, squad balance, and medical assessments that raised subtle but serious concerns.

Liverpool’s scouts had been monitoring Guehi for months, impressed by his composure, leadership, and consistency in the Premier League. The 25-year-old England international was viewed as a natural fit for Arne Slot’s defensive setup, offering the perfect balance between physicality and ball-playing ability. His arrival was expected to solidify Liverpool’s backline alongside Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, giving the Reds much-needed stability heading into the second half of the campaign.

However, according to reports from club insiders, fitness concerns surfaced during the final stages of the transfer process. Medical staff reportedly detected a lingering issue from an old injury that could have affected Guehi’s long-term performance levels. Although the player had shown no immediate symptoms, Liverpool’s strict medical protocols led them to exercise caution — a decision that ultimately halted the deal.

In addition to the medical red flags, Arne Slot and the club’s sporting directors were said to be reassessing their transfer priorities. Liverpool’s new management has focused heavily on building a younger, faster defensive unit, and there were internal debates over whether committing a significant transfer fee for Guehi — who would have cost upwards of £55 million — aligned with their evolving strategy. Slot reportedly wanted to allocate more funds toward strengthening other positions, particularly in midfield and attack.

Another key factor was Crystal Palace’s unwillingness to negotiate easily. The London club were reluctant to let one of their most reliable players leave mid-season without a suitable replacement lined up. Despite Guehi’s interest in joining Liverpool, Palace’s demands for a higher transfer fee and additional clauses in the contract made negotiations increasingly tense. In the end, both clubs failed to find common ground before the transfer deadline.

The breakdown of the deal has left Liverpool fans divided. Some supporters feel the club missed out on an ideal defensive reinforcement, especially given the growing injury concerns surrounding Konaté and Joe Gomez. Others, however, have praised the management for being prudent and avoiding a potentially risky long-term investment, especially after several high-profile injuries have disrupted Liverpool’s past campaigns.

Football analysts have also weighed in, describing the situation as a “smart but painful” decision for Liverpool. Guehi’s talent and leadership qualities are unquestionable, but the Premier League is littered with examples of clubs rushing into expensive signings that later prove unsustainable. Liverpool, under Slot’s leadership, appear determined to avoid that mistake, even if it means short-term disappointment.

Interestingly, reports suggest that Liverpool could revisit the move next summer if Guehi maintains his fitness and form throughout the remainder of the season. The Reds are expected to continue monitoring him closely, especially as they plan for a potential defensive reshuffle in 2026. Guehi, for his part, remains fully focused on performing for Crystal Palace, though sources say he remains open to a future move to a top-four club.

For now, the failed transfer serves as a reminder of how unpredictable the football market can be. What seemed like a routine signing quickly turned into a saga of caution, strategy, and timing. Liverpool’s decision not to proceed may frustrate some, but it also reflects the meticulous approach the club is adopting under Arne Slot — an approach built not just on ambition, but on sustainability and long-term vision.

With the January transfer window approaching, all eyes will be on whether Liverpool reignite their pursuit of Guehi or turn to alternative defensive targets. One thing is certain — this transfer twist has left the fanbase both stunned and eager for answers, proving once again that in football, even the most certain deals can unravel in the blink of an eye.