Liverpool plotting move for £15m defender Marc Guehi after Crystal Palace swoop

Reds identify Chelsea academy graduate as summer target

Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a move for Chelsea academy graduate Marc Guehi after Crystal Palace completed a deal to sign the defender for around £15 million.

The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at Palace, making 31 appearances and impressing with his performances at the heart of the Eagles’ defense.

Guehi’s impressive loan spell at Palace

• Made 31 appearances for Palace in 2020/21.
• Helped Palace keep 7 clean sheets in the Premier League.
• Earned rave reviews for his performances.

Guehi's impressive form has reportedly caught the attention of Liverpool, who are looking to bolster their defensive options ahead of the 2021/22 season.

The Reds are said to be keen on signing the young defender, who is viewed as a long-term replacement for Dejan Lovren, who left the club last summer.

Liverpool’s need for defensive reinforcements

• Dejan Lovren left Liverpool in 2020.
• Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez missed most of 2020/21 through injury.
• Liverpool conceded 42 goals in the Premier League in 2020/21, their highest tally since 2015/16.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is a known admirer of Guehi, having worked with him during his time as manager of Borussia Dortmund.

Klopp is said to be impressed by Guehi's versatility, as he can play as a centre-back or a right-back.

Guehi’s versatility

• Can play as a centre-back or a right-back.
• Provides Liverpool with cover in multiple positions.
• Offers Klopp tactical flexibility.

Guehi is under contract at Chelsea until 2023, but it is believed that the Blues are willing to sell the defender if they receive a suitable offer.

Liverpool are reportedly ready to pay around £20 million for Guehi, who is seen as a player with the potential to become one of the best defenders in the Premier League.