Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi has hit a snag after Crystal Palace missed out on their top target to replace him. Brighton defender Igor Julio, who had been lined up by the Eagles, is now closing in on a move to West Ham instead. With Guehi wanted at Anfield in a £35 million ($47m) deal, the Eagles’ failure to land a replacement leaves Liverpool’s move hanging in the balance.
Crystal Palace miss out on Brighton’s Igor Julio to West HamLiverpool’s £35m move for Marc Guehi faces a fresh delayEagles still hunting replacements before transfer deadline closesFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Crystal Palace had identified Brighton’s Igor Julio as a key replacement for Guehi, but talks collapsed due to limited assurances over game time. As per Ben Jacobs, West Ham have since stepped in and opened negotiations for the 27-year-old centre-back on a season-long loan. The Hammers are targeting defensive reinforcements, with Nayef Aguerd set to leave for Marseille.
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Palace’s inability to secure Igor could potentially halt Guehi’s transfer to Liverpool as the Eagles remain determined to bring in two new centre-backs before sanctioning an exit. West Ham’s interest leaves the Eagles scrambling for alternatives on deadline day. For Liverpool, it means more uncertainty as Arne Slot waits to see if his new defensive target completes his move.
DID YOU KNOW?
Igor joined Brighton from Fiorentina in 2023 but struggled for consistent game time, making just 13 league appearances last season. He also endured a four-month spell out with a hamstring injury. Crystal Palace had hoped to land him as part of their succession plan for Guehi, but the Eagles can't guarantee playing time.
GOALWHAT NEXT FOR GUEHI?
Liverpool remain confident of eventually landing Guehi but may need to wait for Crystal Palace to authorise the deal. The Eagles are still exploring defensive options, but time is running out before the window shuts in a few hours' time.