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Liverpool's push to sign Marc Guehi could face a major obstacle caused by Eberechi Eze's switch to Arsenal, it's been claimed.
England international Eze sealed his transfer from Crystal Palace to the Gunners on Saturday in a deal potentially worth up to $91million. Palace captain Guehi is another player who may be departing Selhurst Park following Liverpool's sustained interest in the centre-back.
The 25-year-old is entering the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park and is refusing to sign fresh terms. That means he could leave for a cut-price fee of $47m ahead of next Monday's transfer deadline.
Liverpool's rivals Manchester City are also reportedly contemplating a move for Guehi should Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake exit this week. However, former Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster has now suggested the England defender might be tempted to remain at Palace in the long run and exploit Eze's departure to his benefit by demanding a substantial wage increase.
Despite interest from two Premier League heavyweights, the ex-Watford and Wrexham keeper believes there remains a genuine possibility of Guehi staying with the Eagles for an extended period.
Speaking on the Fozcast podcast, Foster said: "I think the Eze deal might have played into Guehi's hands a little bit. He's got massive aspirations of going and signing for a big boy. If Liverpool come knocking, then you want to go to Liverpool.
"But then you might be worried about the deal getting done and how much it might cost, and whether Liverpool are prepared to stump up.
"It puts massive power into Marc Guehi's hands to say to Palace, 'I tell you what, give me £150,000 a week on a four-year deal and I'll sign and say that I am the happiest Crystal Palace player in the world.' That's what it does, and I've seen it plenty of times before. It wouldn't surprise me if that happened."
Guehi's destiny remains undetermined at present, with Palace understood to be reluctant to part with the defender before Thursday's second leg of their Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad.
However, club chairman Steve Parish has previously suggested they would permit his departure if an appropriate fee is realised this summer, rather than risk losing him without compensation next year.
Palace is believed to be pursuing Toulouse defender Jaydee Canvot as a potential successor to Guehi. Aston Villa is also thought to be monitoring the 19-year-old's situation.
Canvot's potential arrival could set off a chain reaction that would enable Guehi's exit. Palace is determined to secure a fee of $60m for him, whilst Liverpool remains hesitant to move beyond $47m for the player.
City's interest could trigger a situation reminiscent of Eze's transfer to Arsenal, where the Gunners outmanoeuvred rivals Tottenham for his signature. Guehi has become a sought-after player following his impressive defensive performances for Palace over the past two seasons.
He also played a pivotal role in securing the Eagles' first-ever FA Cup trophy back in May. Guehi could now be on the brink of a move to one of two Champions League clubs, should his exit be approved.
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