Marc Guehi makes new Liverpool claim after collapsed transfer – and it speaks volumes

Marc Guehi Assists Palace’s Winner Against Liverpool After Deadline Day Transfer Collapse

Marc Guehi added insult to injury for Liverpool as they suffered their first Premier League defeat of the season at the hands of Crystal Palace. The Eagles defender set up the decisive goal in stoppage time, helping Palace to a dramatic 2–1 victory at Selhurst Park.

Liverpool had appeared to salvage a draw when Federico Chiesa struck in the 87th minute, only for Eddie Nketiah to grab a late winner from Guehi’s flick-on. Ironically, Guehi was close to joining the Reds on deadline day, with a £35 million move in place before Palace pulled the plug after failing to secure a replacement.

Despite ongoing speculation surrounding his future, Guehi has remained a key performer for Palace. His form has not dipped, even with the transfer talk swirling around him before and after the window closed.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown, speaking on BBC’s Final Score, believes Liverpool would have beaten Palace had they landed Guehi.

“I think Palace won the real battle — keeping Guehi,” Keown said. “(Manager Oliver) Glasner was very firm in his stance. If Guehi had been playing for Liverpool today — and he could’ve been — things might’ve turned out differently. Konaté struggled, and you could see what they were missing.”

Guehi’s defensive presence was vital as Palace secured the win. His performance came into sharper focus given Liverpool’s lack of depth at centre-back, especially after Giovanni Leoni’s season-ending ACL injury. While the Reds remain interested in the England international, manager Arne Slot has insisted that Leoni’s injury won’t force a January move. With Guehi’s contract expiring in 2026, a summer transfer remains more likely, particularly on a free transfer in 2026 if no deal is struck before.

Guehi’s commitment to Palace hasn’t wavered. Before the clash with Liverpool, he underlined his dedication in his captain’s notes in the matchday programme.

“It shows how far we’ve come that in tight games, we’re now finding ways to win or at least draw,” he wrote. “Going 17 matches unbeaten across all competitions is a great milestone — but we’re still not satisfied. We want to win every game, whether it’s a friendly or a final. That drive isn’t about just one player — it’s a collective mindset. It’s what makes us a tough opponent for anyone.”

Looking ahead to Liverpool, Guehi added: “We know how strong they’ve been this season, but we’re on a great run ourselves. As we showed at Wembley in August, we can compete with the best. Today is another chance to prove that Selhurst Park belongs among the best atmospheres in the league. We’ll give everything for another three points.”

Guehi lived up to his words, leading by example and helping Palace extend their unbeaten run to 18 matches, lifting them to second in the Premier League table.

Match-winner Eddie Nketiah later praised Guehi’s leadership, saying the dressing room had no doubts about his loyalty to the club. Manager Oliver Glasner echoed that sentiment, revealing that although Guehi was disappointed his move fell through, his attitude remained professional.

“Of course he was a little disappointed initially,” Glasner admitted pre-match. “But he told me, ‘It’s okay, I love this club, the staff, the team — I’m from south London, and I’ll give everything I’ve got.’ That’s exactly what I expected.”

“I have zero concerns about Marc,” Glasner added. “As long as he’s playing for Crystal Palace, he’ll give 100%. He’s an exceptional player, in fantastic form, and I knew he’d deliver again.”

Glasner was proven right. Guehi’s performance underlined both his quality and commitment — and left Liverpool regretting what might have been. Whether or not a future move to Anfield happens, one thing is clear: Guehi is giving everything for Palace right now.