Liverpool are facing a busy transfer deadline day as they aim to bring two high-profile signings through the door.
The Reds have already agreed a deal with Newcastle to sign Alexander Isak for a club record fee, but are not finished there.
Having made an opening bid on Saturday, Liverpool are still hopeful of adding Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace.
Although there was initially an expectation that a fee would be agreed and a transfer arranged between the two clubs, Liverpool have since been dealt a blow in the Guehi saga.
As Rousing The Kop exclusively revealed on Monday morning, Oliver Glasner is pushing to keep Guehi, and is determined that the centre-back will absolutely not be sold unless a suitable replacement is secured.
While that had begun to look like it may not happen, Palace have just done a bit of a U-turn and could now seal a ‘surprise’ transfer.
Crystal Palace could sign Igor Julio as Marc Guehi replacement
There are not many players out there who Palace could sign at such short notice who could come in and take over from Guehi.
The Eagles reportedly attempted to get Joe Gomez on-loan as part of a deal with Liverpool, but the Reds said no.
While that may have been bad news for Guehi’s chances of an Anfield move, journalist Charlie Parker-Turner reported that Palace have made a shock attempt to sign Igor Julio from rivals Brighton.
“Surprise loan deal. Crystal Palace have reached an agreement with Brighton to sign Igor Julio on a season-long loan. Personal terms not expected to be an issue,” said Parker-Turner.
READ MORE: Timeframe for Alexander Isak’s Liverpool medical revealed as £125m deal agreed
“West Ham also in the race but Palace in pole position to secure his signature as it stands.”
Expanding on his colleague’s update, BBC Sport journalist Sami Mokbel moved to add that Igor is being seen as a potential Guehi replacement.
“Crystal Palace interested in Igor Julio at Brighton as potential replacement for Marc Guehi, who is a target for Liverpool today,” says Mokbel. “West Ham have also held talks over a move for Julio.”
Guehi to Liverpool is still alive
With Palace clearly making moves to cover the loss of Guehi, it looks as though Liverpool might still be in business here.
It will be fascinating to see who comes out on top in a battle of wills between manager Glasner and chairman Steve Parish.
Glasner has been incredibly successful at Selhurst Park, and he is clearly not on board with the decision to let Guehi go.
Nevertheless, with £40m or so on the line for Palace, the Austrian must surely see the sense in selling him now.
For Liverpool, all of that is not of their concern. They will simply wait to get the green light from south London.
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