Crystal Palace Pursues Central Defenders Amid Guehi's Potential Move to Liverpool
Crystal Palace is actively seeking to sign two central defenders before the transfer window closes, a move that could facilitate Marc Guehi's anticipated transfer to Liverpool.
The Premier League champions have engaged in discussions regarding a proposed £35 million transfer for Guehi. However, Palace manager Oliver Glasner has stated that the center-back must remain with the club beyond Monday's deadline.
While no agreement has yet been reached between the two clubs, Liverpool has received indications that Palace is open to selling the England defender and is working diligently to bolster their defensive lineup.
Guehi, the captain of Palace, has expressed his intention not to sign a new contract at Selhurst Park.
Despite Glasner's public commitment to retaining Guehi, the club is hesitant to allow the 25-year-old to leave on a free transfer when his contract expires next summer. Last year, they turned down a £65 million offer from Newcastle for Guehi.
Palace is interested in Toulouse's 19-year-old defender Jaydee Canvot, with discussions about a transfer currently in advanced stages.
Additionally, they are pursuing an experienced center-back and have approached Manchester City for Manuel Akanji. However, the Swiss international reportedly has reservations about the potential move.
Ousmane Diomande of Sporting has been identified as Palace's top target, but they have yet to meet the financial demands for the Ivory Coast international.
Furthermore, Roma's Evan Ndicka is also believed to be on Palace's radar.
In a statement on Friday, Glasner emphasized, "[Guehi] has to [be a Palace player when the window shuts]. It is not possible to find a Marc Guehi replacement who can play straight in the Premier League as a starter."