Competition to secure Marc Goech’s signature is intensifying, with both Manchester City and Liverpool preparing for a potential transfer tug of war.
According to a report from the Daily Mirror, the city is ready to rival Liverpool in pursuit of Crystal Palace Captain, who will become a free agent at the end of the 2025/26 campaign.
Gehhi was approaching leaving Selhurst Park this summer. A £35 million deadline switch to Liverpool was agreed in principle, and England International completed the healthcare.
However, when the palace retreated in 11 hours, the movement fell apart. The club had Brighton defender Igor Giulio as an alternative, but West Ham United hijacked the deal and had no choice but to hold the skipper behind Oliver Glasner’s side.
Liverpool is confident in signing Mark Guech next year
Liverpool is confident that they will revisit the deal next summer. Sources close to Anfield believe that the foundation laid during the failed transfer will be advantageous for negotiations when Guéhi’s contract collapses.
But Manchester City’s entry into the race complicates the problem. Pep Guardiola is reportedly a huge admirer of Gehi, especially after his role in the strong show with the British national team and the FA Cup victory at the Palace.
Man City is looking for a long-term solution
The city plans a long-term future for their defense. Guardiola is about to make a defensive addition as Manuel Akanji left the club this summer and John Stones wasn’t the same player as him once.
Guehi, who has played more than 150 appearances for the club since his arrival from Chelsea in 2021, has been the center of the palace’s rise in recent years, and losing the captain without compensation would be a huge blow.
While club insiders admit they want to persuade him to sign fresh words, optimism is waning in Liverpool and the city’s turning.
Former England boss Gareth Southgate described Gehi as a “exceptional” player.
Man City’s “concerns” opens doors for Man United to sign defenders in 2026