Major update on Newcastle-linked defender as Liverpool star ‘rejects’ offer

Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi has taken a significant turn as new reports from Spain suggest a window of opportunity may now be opening for the Reds.

The Crystal Palace defender, once heavily courted by Newcastle United, now appears to be attracting serious interest from Anfield, particularly as Liverpool face an uncertain future with Ibrahima Konaté.

Just a year ago, Newcastle identified Guehi as a key defensive target following his outstanding performances at Euro 2024.

They made a strong effort to bring him to St James’ Park, but Crystal Palace remained resolute in their valuation. Despite Newcastle’s ambitions, they found themselves constrained by the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, ultimately withdrawing from negotiations when it became clear that Palace wouldn’t lower their demands.

As a result, Guehi remained in South London, where he went on to captain Palace to FA Cup success.

However, the situation has shifted significantly over the past few months. Guehi is now in the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, and although he has worn the armband and delivered silverware, there’s little indication that he plans to extend his stay.

Palace now face the classic dilemma of whether to cash in on one of their most valuable assets or risk losing him for nothing next summer.

Newcastle had again shown some interest earlier in the current window, but that appears to have cooled. With their attention now focused on alternatives such as Giorgio Scalvini of Atalanta and Marseille’s Leonardo Balerdi, the Tyneside club has effectively stepped back from the Guehi race, leaving Liverpool in a much stronger position to make their move.

The timing could be ideal for Jurgen Klopp’s successor Arne Slot, especially amid increasing uncertainty around Konaté’s future.

According to Spanish outlet Marca, the French centre-back has turned down another contract extension from Liverpool. Konaté, like Guehi, is entering the final year of his deal, and Liverpool—having already lost Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid on a free—are determined to avoid a repeat scenario.

Madrid, for their part, are reportedly willing to wait a year and sign Konaté for free if no agreement is reached.

Konaté played a central role in Liverpool’s campaign last season, starting 39 games across all competitions, including the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle at Wembley.

His consistent presence at the back makes the prospect of losing him a serious concern, and should Liverpool decide to sell this summer rather than risk letting him leave for nothing, Guehi is understood to be their preferred replacement.

Palace have placed a valuation of around £50 million on Guehi, a figure that reflects both his Premier League experience and international pedigree.

Interestingly, that number is believed to be lower than the sum Newcastle were willing to pay for him a year ago, adding another layer of intrigue to the deal. With Guehi reportedly open to a move and Liverpool keen to reinforce their back line before the new season, a deal appears increasingly viable if Konaté exits.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are finalizing what is set to be their first major signing of the summer. Anthony Elanga’s proposed move from Nottingham Forest to St James’ Park is progressing quickly, with the Swedish international traveling to the northeast on Tuesday to undergo his medical and agree on personal terms.

The completion of this deal would mark the start of what promises to be a crucial transfer window for Eddie Howe’s side, as they aim to build a deeper, more versatile squad ahead of a demanding campaign.

As it stands, the defensive dominoes are lining up. Konaté’s contract standoff has put Liverpool in a position where they must act quickly.

With Newcastle no longer in the picture and Palace facing increasing pressure to sell, Liverpool may find that Guehi is not only available—but potentially one of the most important defensive acquisitions they can make this summer.