Liverpool are reportedly on the verge of shattering the world record for the most expensive defender in football history by finalizing a £100 million deal for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi, a move that has left rivals Manchester United and Arsenal stunned.
The 24-year-old England international, who has been a prime target for both clubs, is set to undergo a medical at Anfield on June 28, 2025, with personal terms already agreed for a five-year contract.
The transfer, driven by sporting director Richard Hughes, marks a bold statement from Arne Slot’s side as they aim to fortify their defense for the 2025/26 Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
Guéhi, who captained Palace last season, recorded 102 ball recoveries, 56 clearances, and an 88% pass accuracy, earning praise for his composure and leadership during England’s Euro 2024 campaign.
His £100 million fee, including add-ons, surpasses the current record held by Manchester United’s £80 million signing of Harry Maguire in 2019, with Liverpool’s own Virgil van Dijk (£75m, 2018) and Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol (£77m, 2023) now trailing.
The deal eclipses Liverpool’s initial £70 million bid, which Palace rejected, as the Eagles held firm for a nine-figure sum given Guéhi’s contract entering its final year.
Manchester United, who targeted Guéhi alongside Leny Yoro (£52.1m from Lille), and Arsenal, who saw him as a partner for William Saliba, are reeling from Liverpool’s decisive move. United’s pursuit was hampered by their £110 million signing of Viktor Gyökeres, while Arsenal prioritized Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori (£40m).
Sources indicate Guéhi was swayed by Liverpool’s promise of regular minutes alongside van Dijk and a central role in Slot’s system, unlike the rotation risks at United or Arsenal.
Posts on social media reflect rival fans’ shock, with one United supporter posting, “Guéhi to Liverpool for £100m? We’ve been outplayed again!” An Arsenal fan added, “Arteta wanted him, but Liverpool just stole the show.”
Liverpool’s defensive crisis, with Ibrahima Konaté potentially leaving as a free agent in 2026 and Andy Robertson sidelined by an ACL injury, necessitated the blockbuster move.
The £35 million sale of Jarell Quansah and funds from a new Adidas deal have fueled Liverpool’s £287 million summer spree, including Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and Freddie Woodman. Guéhi’s arrival signals Liverpool’s intent to dominate, leaving United and Arsenal scrambling to respond.