Arne Slot’s Liverpool are optimistic about beating Real Madrid to the signature of Crystal Palace mainstay Marc Guehi.

According to a report from CaughtOffside, Liverpool are confident about securing the services of Marc Guehi next summer, when he becomes a free agent. While Real Madrid also appear to be interested in the Crystal Palace centre-back, there is no sense of panic at the Merseyside club.

Guehi has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League with his consistent performances for the Eagles. He is also a regular feature for the English national team.

On the back of his performances, multiple top clubs have been keen on signing him. With him entering the final year of his deal, Liverpool made significant efforts to sign the 25-year-old in the recently concluded transfer window.

They were on the verge of securing his services on transfer deadline day, having agreed a deal with the Eagles. But Palace chairman Steve Parish pulled the plug on the move at the request of manager Oliver Glasner, as they failed to secure an ideal replacement in time.

While the deal fell through, Liverpool haven’t given up on their pursuit of the English international. After a blockbuster of a window where they signed some world-class players, the Reds have already started planning for the future.

Liverpool confident about signing Guehi in 2026

They are keen on having Guehi in their squad and are plotting a Bosman move for the Palace defender. He is expected to run down his deal and become a free agent. Since he will be available at a bargain, multiple top clubs are keeping a close eye on his situation.

Real Madrid are one of the clubs that have been linked with the 25-year-old in recent weeks. With David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger’s contracts running out, they are looking for someone who can become one of their mainstays in the long run.

Guehi is considered an ideal fit for Xabi Alonso’s team, and they do specialise in signing free agents. Despite interest from the Spanish giants, there is no sense of panic at Anfield. They remain confident about securing Guehi’s services, having already agreed personal terms with him over the summer. They are hopeful of beating any sort of competition to his signature.