Liverpool’s hope of signing Marc Guehi during the January transfer window has suffered a huge setback as the England International’s agent reportedly meets with Bayern Munich chief Max Eberl.
Guehi came close to signing for Liverpool last summer, only for Palace to pull the plug on deadline day when they failed to secure a replacement. The collapse of the £35 million ($46.6m) move dramatically changed the 25-year-old’s future, and with his deal winding down, clubs know he could walk for free in 2026.
With the window for pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs opening on January 1, Bayern intend to open talks.
According to Sky Sports, Bayern chief Eberl plans to meet Guehi as soon as he becomes eligible to negotiate freely.
Marc Guehi celebrates scoring a goal for Crystal Palace. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Earlier in the campaign, when asked about Bayern’s discussion with Guehi’s representatives, Eberl told DAZN: “It’s absolutely clear that we as Bayern Munich are exploring the market. Our clear goal is to extend Upa’s [Dayot Upamecano] contract. That’s our ultimate goal. If that doesn’t work out, we have to be prepared. We would be foolish not to. That’s the reason. I’ve not confirmed anything, but we are active in the market.”
Palace boss Oliver Glasner has already revealed that the Eagles will have to reluctantly part ways with the defender next summer: “I think Marc has already told us that he doesn’t sign a new contract, so he will leave next year. The club wanted [him to stay]. They offered Marc a new contract. But he said, ‘no, I want to make something different’. And that’s normal. And for us, it’s how we can deal with this situation? [What] is the best way to get this next step done? And that’s all about how we are talking together.”
Liverpool who were looking at signing Guehi as a potential heir to Virgil van Dijk, who will be 35 next season might now have to shift their focus elsewhere.
Also, the failed move to Liverpool appears not to have dented Guehi’s admiration for the club. He recently revealed he has taken the disappointment in his stride, leaning on his faith and the support of team-mate Maxence Lacroix.
He told Sky Sports: “I think everyone has this perception that it was difficult. Actually, it wasn’t difficult. It wasn’t difficult at all. Because when you’re focused on what’s the most important thing, it becomes easy. I know that God has a plan for me, and whatever that plan will be, will come into fruition at some point. But, the goal and the focus has always been playing football and trying to do the best I can. And fortunately for me, I get to do it with people like Max.”
