‘I can confirm’: Romano provides unwanted update as Liverpool establish interest in one of INEOS’ main summer targets

England's defender #06 Marc Guehi and Serbia's forward #07 Dusan Vlahovic vie during the UEFA Euro 2024 Group C football match between Serbia and England at the Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen on June 16, 2024. (Photo by KENZO TRIBOUILLARD / AFP)

Manchester United have long been linked with a move for Crystal Palace stalwart Marc Guehi but have yet to materialise their interest with a formal approach.

Only last week was it claimed that United were on red alert after learning of Guehi’s unwillingness to sign a new contract with the Eagles.

His current deal is set to expire in 2026, yet Palace will be well aware that his value is currently at its highest following his stellar Euros campaign. Should they opt to keep him this summer, they risk losing him for nothing later down the line, as any interested clubs may hold off on igniting their pursuit if they know Guehi will eventually become a free agent.

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A product of Chelsea’s academy, the England international has only flourished since leaving the Blues for Selhurst Park in 2021, so much so that his former club may rue their decision to overlook a buy-back clause in his exit deal.

United and Arsenal were thought to be Guehi’s most significant admirers in recent months, although Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that Liverpool have thrown themselves into the mix as a potential suitor for the 24-year-old.

What Romano has said about Guehi

“I can tell you that Liverpool have been scouting the player for a long time. He’s a player they like, for sure,” Romano revealed, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo. “But at the moment, I can tell you that Liverpool are not negotiating for Marc Guehi because, at the moment, the situation is quiet around him.

“Obviously, there’s the Euros, so after the Euros, we will see. The appreciation of Liverpool for the player I can confirm to you. But not only Liverpool but also other clubs, for example, Arsenal and many others appreciate the player. But in terms of a bid, in terms of negotiation, it’s a different story.”

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Already this summer, United have said goodbye to Raphael Varane and Willy Kambwala while having two bids rejected for Jarrad Branthwaite. Testing Palace’s resolve with a proposal for Guehi wouldn’t go amiss in INEOS’ centre-half search.