Liverpool and Arsenal face a £70 million problem as their Premier League rival remains firm.
Arsenal and Liverpool are encountering challenges in their respective transfer pursuits, with Crystal Palace remaining steadfast on their valuations of Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi.
Both players played pivotal roles as Palace finished in the top half of the Premier League last season, and they were both selected for England’s Euro 2024 squad. Eze had limited opportunities as a substitute, while Guehi emerged as a crucial defensive figure.
The 24-year-old Guehi became John Stones’ primary partner at center-back, aiding England in reaching the tournament final. Although England fell short, Guehi and Eze have attracted significant interest due to their performances this summer.
Guehi is a target for both Liverpool and Arsenal, while Arsenal is also considering a move for Eze. However, Palace is making negotiations difficult for both Premier League clubs.
Palace is demanding £70 million for both players, despite Guehi having only two years left on his contract, which has led Liverpool to reconsider their interest. Arsenal, meanwhile, has not pursued Eze further since Palace made their fee expectations clear and has also put their interest in Guehi on hold.
Palace’s £70 million demand is believed to be influencing Mikel Arteta’s shift to other targets. The high valuation is thought to be driven by the 20 percent sell-on clause Chelsea included when they sold Guehi to Palace in 2021.
Guehi’s value is at its peak following his successful tournament with England, with his center-back partner, John Stones, praising him highly. Stones mentioned on BBC’s Football Daily Podcast, “He’s handled tournament football and all the emotions involved exceptionally well. I told him, ‘We do this together. I’ve got your back,’ and he’s embraced that. We’ve had two excellent games together. He’s managed the occasion superbly, and I really enjoy playing with him.”