Crystal Palace have made headlines in the final days of the transfer window as reports confirm that the Eagles have launched a bid for Liverpool defender Joe Gomez, with the versatile centre-back now emerging as the club’s prime target to replace captain Marc Guehi, who is on the verge of sealing a move to Merseyside.
According to reputed transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Gomez has been identified by Palace as the ideal candidate to reinforce their defensive unit. Meanwhile, a report by the BBC claims Palace are also exploring the possibility of structuring the deal as a late loan move — potentially as a sweetener in negotiations with Liverpool over Guehi’s highly anticipated switch.
The timing of this move could not be more crucial for Crystal Palace. With Guehi nearing the exit door, manager Oliver Glasner and the club hierarchy are desperate to avoid being left short at the back. Gomez, who is 28 and still regarded as one of the more experienced English defenders in the Premier League, offers both quality and versatility.
The England international can operate across the backline, covering at centre-back, right-back, and even as a left-sided option when required — a trait that has made him a useful asset for Liverpool since his arrival from Charlton Athletic back in 2015.
While Gomez has had memorable moments at Anfield, including forming part of the defensive unit that helped the Reds clinch the Premier League title in 2020 and the Champions League in 2019, his journey has also been plagued by injuries. These fitness issues have often left fans and managers frustrated, preventing him from fully cementing himself as a guaranteed starter under Jürgen Klopp.
In fact, the 2025/26 campaign has begun with Gomez managing just 18 minutes of game time across all competitions. Despite his limited involvement, his stock remains high across Europe, with several clubs aware of his ability and Premier League experience.
While Palace initially explored a permanent move, the latest reports suggest that a loan agreement may now be on the cards, potentially smoothing negotiations with Liverpool as Guehi prepares for his big-money move in the opposite direction.
This approach would allow Palace to quickly plug the gap left by Guehi’s departure while avoiding a massive financial outlay at a time when the market is at its peak. For Liverpool, it could also provide Gomez with valuable playing time without closing the door on his long-term future at Anfield.
Unsurprisingly, the news has triggered widespread debate among fans of both clubs. Liverpool supporters appear split, with some welcoming the potential departure of Gomez, citing his injury history, while others argue that letting him go so late in the window could be a risky move.
One Reds fan posted on X (formerly Twitter): “If Guehi is coming in, then it makes sense — but Gomez leaving weakens our depth massively.” Another added: “He deserves more minutes. Palace would be a good move for him.”
Palace fans, meanwhile, are largely in favor of the move. Many believe Gomez’s experience at the highest level would make him an immediate leader in the backline. One supporter commented: “If we get Gomez in as Guehi leaves, that’s smart business. He’s still got a lot to prove.”
The coming days will be crucial as negotiations continue between the clubs. With the transfer window closing rapidly, Crystal Palace are pushing to finalize the move and ensure their squad remains competitive for the season ahead.
Whether it ends as a permanent signing or a season-long loan, the arrival of Joe Gomez would be seen as a major coup for Palace, particularly given the timing of Guehi’s departure. For Gomez himself, it represents a chance to revive his career with regular minutes in the Premier League and potentially reassert himself in the England setup ahead of future international tournaments.
As things stand, Crystal Palace’s defensive reshuffle is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic storylines of the summer transfer window. With Guehi close to joining Liverpool and Gomez potentially heading in the opposite direction, the Eagles could yet emerge from this saga stronger than before.
The clock is ticking, but one thing is certain: Palace are determined to get their man before the window slams shut.
Leave a Reply