Liverpool’s determined pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi has hit another significant roadblock. According to the latest reports, the Reds have now seen a second, improved offer for the highly-rated centre-back rejected by the London club.
This news confirms that Liverpool are serious about signing the England international this summer. Having seen their initial offer turned down last week, they returned to the negotiating table with a second bid in an attempt to find a compromise. However, this too has been deemed insufficient by the Palace hierarchy.
Crystal Palace are playing hardball in the negotiations and are refusing to lower their valuation for their vice-captain. They have reportedly made it clear to Liverpool that they want a transfer fee of at least €55 million (£46.5 million) to even consider a sale.
This firm stance comes despite the fact that Guéhi is in the final year of his contract and has shown no intention of signing a new deal. Palace are clearly determined to get maximum value for their prized asset rather than being forced into a cheap sale due to his contract status.
Liverpool are now at a crossroads and must make a crucial decision. They must decide whether to finally meet Crystal Palace’s €55 million asking price, a figure they were previously said to be reluctant to pay, or to walk away from the deal and pursue other defensive targets.
The battle of wills over Marc Guéhi’s future continues. With two bids now officially rejected, the pressure is on Liverpool to make the next move. They know the player is available and likely keen on the move, but Palace’s tough negotiating stance means signing him will require a significant financial commitment.