Crystal Palace stunned the transfer market on deadline day by pulling the plug on Marc Guéhi’s proposed £35 million move to Liverpool, despite having already agreed to sell the defender earlier in the day.
Guéhi, who was preparing to undergo his medical ahead of the switch to Anfield, had seen a deal sheet submitted before the 7pm deadline. However, Palace dramatically reversed their decision in the final minutes after failing to secure an adequate replacement for their captain.
The club had announced the signing of 19-year-old French defender Jaydee Canvot from Toulouse for £21 million, but manager Oliver Glasner was adamant that Guéhi’s departure would leave his squad dangerously exposed. Glasner, who guided Palace to their first-ever major trophy with the FA Cup triumph in May, reportedly expressed his fury in heated talks with chairman Steve Parish. His stance raised fears that he could even consider resigning if Guéhi was allowed to leave without a proven replacement.
Palace had been working on additional signings throughout the day, including a loan move for Brighton’s Igor Julio, but negotiations broke down. With time running out and no experienced centre-back secured, Parish made the late call to inform Liverpool that the deal was off.
The decision leaves Guéhi’s future uncertain. Parish had previously admitted that the defender might need to be sold this summer to avoid losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires next year. Nevertheless, Glasner’s insistence and the club’s inability to complete further signings tipped the balance in favour of retaining their captain for at least the first half of the season.
Alongside Canvot, Palace remain active in the market. They are pursuing a loan deal for Tottenham winger Manor Solomon and are also close to finalising the €20 million (£17.3m) signing of Nigerian forward Christantus Uche from Getafe.
For Liverpool, the collapse marks a significant setback after moving swiftly to reinforce their defensive ranks. Having already sealed the high-profile £125 million signing of Alexander Isak earlier in the window, the club must now reassess their defensive options ahead of a demanding campaign.
The late drama underscores the high stakes of deadline day, with Palace prioritising stability and Glasner’s authority over financial gain. For Guéhi, the focus now shifts back to Selhurst Park, where he remains a key figure in Palace’s ambitions this season.
