A domino effect of transfers is unfolding between Crystal Palace, Liverpool, and Sporting CP. Here’s the latest report and detailed analysis:1. *Crystal Palace Ready to Buy Ousmane Diomande to Replace Marc Guehi:* – Context: Palace is reportedly close to signing Sporting’s 21-year-old CB Ousmane Diomande for a club-record fee of €55 million (£47 million). Negotiations are progressing smoothly, and personal terms have been agreed. This move is seen as preparation for the potential loss of captain Marc Guehi, who has one year left on his contract and has refused to sign a new deal. – Analysis: Diomande, who played 46 matches for Sporting last season with 2 goals and 1 assist, is one of the best young CBs in Europe. His physicality, calmness, and passing ability (95.59% passing accuracy) make him suitable for the Premier League. Palace seems to be acting quickly to avoid losing Guehi for free in 2026. However, there was a slight obstacle as Sporting initially wanted €60 million or activated the €80 million release clause, though they now agree to €55 million. – Critical Note: Although Diomande is seen as a “near-certainty signing,” negotiations regarding add-ons and sell-on clauses are ongoing, so conclusions should be made cautiously.2. *Marc Guehi Potentially Moving to Liverpool:* – Context: Guehi, the 24-year-old Palace captain and England international, is a top target for the Reds. Reports state they are close to agreeing on a five-year contract. With Guehi having one year left on his contract, Palace values him at £45-50 million, though previous bids from Newcastle and Tottenham reached £60-70 million. Liverpool may offer £30-35 million and potentially include young player Ben Doak in the deal. – Analysis: Guehi’s desire to play regularly ahead of the 2026 World Cup makes Liverpool an attractive destination, especially with the chance to play in the UCL. However, with Van Dijk and Konaté as first choices, Guehi’s playing time might be limited unless Konaté leaves. Guehi also turned down clubs like Arsenal due to concerns about playing time. – Critical Note: Although it’s said Guehi has “agreed” to Liverpool, other reports mention he might stay at Palace or wait until 2026 to move for free. Liverpool might wait for Guehi’s price to drop, and the Doak inclusion is still speculative.3. *Uncertain Future for Konaté at Anfield:* – Context: Konaté, 25, has one year left on his contract and has rejected the first renewal offer. Real Madrid, PSG, and Al Hilal have shown interest, with a transfer fee around £40 million being discussed. Liverpool might be open to selling him to fund Guehi’s purchase. – Analysis: If Konaté leaves, Guehi would directly replace him, offering Premier League experience and homegrown status. Interest from clubs like Real and PSG is reasonable given Konaté’s physicality, but his inconsistency and injury history affect his value to Liverpool. A £40 million fee seems fair, though Al Hilal might drive up the price. – Critical Note: The narrative that Konaté is set to leave is speculative—contract talks are ongoing, and losing Konaté and Quansah (who moved to Leverkusen) could impact Liverpool’s squad depth.*The Domino Effect:*- *How It Connects:* The chain is clear—Palace buys Diomande to replace Guehi, Guehi moves to Liverpool to fill Konaté’s potential spot, and Konaté might move to a European giant. Quansah’s departure to Leverkusen also increases Liverpool’s need for Guehi.- *Potential Obstacles:* Diomande’s negotiations might fail due to fee disputes. Liverpool might refuse to pay a high price for Guehi. Konaté might sign a new contract, reducing the need for Guehi. Interest from giants might not translate to concrete offers.- *Likelihood:* This domino effect is plausible, with Diomande’s negotiations progressing as a strong sign. However, Konaté’s future is still uncertain.In conclusion, this domino effect—Diomande to Palace, Guehi to Liverpool, Konaté to a big European club—is unfolding, with Diomande’s transfer as the key catalyst. Guehi’s move to Liverpool seems possible, but Konaté’s situation is a determining factor. With the transfer window just opening, anything can happen. Hopefully, Liverpool can finalize any transfers before the start of pre-season in about three weeks. What do you think will be the outcome of this situation?
DOMINO EFFECT BETWEEN PALACE, LIVERPOOL & SPORTING!
