Manchester United are reportedly ready to rival Liverpool for the signing of Marc Guéhi, with Crystal Palace valuing their star defender at around £40 million ahead of the January transfer window.
According to multiple sources, United are keeping a close eye on the situation as they assess potential reinforcements at the back — but their move will depend heavily on Harry Maguire’s future. The England international could be allowed to leave Old Trafford if a suitable offer arrives, freeing both funds and space for a new centre-back.
Guéhi has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders over the past two seasons. Calm on the ball, composed under pressure, and a natural leader, he has been a standout performer for Crystal Palace and a consistent presence in Gareth Southgate’s England squad. With his contract set to expire at the end of next season, Palace are open to selling him now rather than risk losing him for free.
While Liverpool remain the frontrunners, United’s interest adds a new twist. The Reds have been tracking Guéhi for months as part of their defensive rebuild. Despite Jürgen Klopp’s departure, new manager Arne Slot is said to be equally keen, viewing Guéhi as an ideal fit for his high-pressing system and structured defensive approach.
For United, the move represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Injuries to Lisandro Martínez and uncertainty over Raphaël Varane’s future have exposed weaknesses in Erik ten Hag’s backline. Although the club’s main January priority remains a defensive midfielder, sources suggest that Ten Hag would welcome a Premier League-proven centre-back if circumstances align.
However, Liverpool hold a clear advantage. Not only does Guéhi reportedly prefer a move to Anfield, but his camp is also said to be impressed by the club’s track record in developing defenders within a cohesive system. The promise of regular Champions League football — something United can’t currently guarantee — could further tilt the balance toward Merseyside.
As things stand, Crystal Palace are bracing for offers. A bidding war between England’s two most successful clubs could be on the horizon, with Palace unlikely to settle for less than their full valuation.
Whether Guéhi ends up under Slot’s command at Liverpool or joins Ten Hag’s project at Manchester United, one thing is certain: he will be one of the hottest names of the January transfer window, and his next move could shape both clubs’ defensive futures for years to come.
