Liverpool may have to see off the threat of Chelsea if they want to secure the services of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, according to TBRFootball.

The website reports that the Blues are “now paying close attention” to the centre-back’s situation after his move to Newcastle collapsed last month.

It is believed that Palace rejected a £70m offer from the Magpies, but the amount of time left on Guehi’s contract means they may not be able to demand that much for the player in a future transfer window.

The England international’s current deal expires in the summer of 2026 and he isn’t expected to sign an extension.

Guehi has plenty of suitors

In addition to Liverpool and Chelsea, TBRFootball claim that Newcastle have still not given up on signing the 24-year-old, who was said to be open to a move to St James’ Park before the deal stalled.

Manchester City are also said to be “admirers” of Guehi, although there are question marks about the Premier League champions’ interest due to the fact they already have five senior centre-halves on their books.

Liverpool do need to strengthen their options in the middle of defence

The Reds failed to replace Joel Matip after he left on a free transfer at the start of the summer and head coach Arne Slot has had to put his faith in youngster Jarell Quansah.

Furthermore, captain Virgil van Dijk has yet to sign a new contract. Unless an agreement is reached over an extension, the Dutchman will leave Anfield at the end of the season.

The Merseyside club’s interest in Guehi is, therefore, not surprising but the involvement of Chelsea will definitely complicate matters. The defender came through the ranks at the Blues before he was sold to Palace for £20m just over three years ago.

Find out who is in Liverpool’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here