Guehi’s Transfer Saga: European Giants in Pursuit

Marc Guehi’s contract situation at Selhurst Park has positioned him at the center of a transfer tug-of-war among several European powerhouses. As the English center-back enters the final six months of his current deal, it appears unlikely that he will sign an extension to remain at the London club. While he is presently focused on helping Crystal Palace conclude the 2025-26 season on a strong note, it is anticipated that he will depart the club as a free agent at the season’s end.

Real Madrid has emerged as the latest contender in the transfer race for Guehi. Reports from AS indicate that the La Liga giants are actively engaging with the England international’s representatives and have initiated discussions regarding a potential free transfer next summer.

According to the report, Guehi would prioritize a move to the Spanish capital should Real Madrid express further interest, despite receiving offers from other major clubs such as Liverpool, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich. With Guehi entering the last six months of his contract starting January 1, clubs outside the Premier League can begin pre-contract negotiations with the player and his representatives.

Earlier in December, Sky Sports stated that Bayern Munich’s sporting director, Max Eberl, intends to meet with Guehi as soon as he becomes eligible to negotiate freely. Eberl had previously mentioned to DAZN, “It’s absolutely clear that we as Bayern Munich are exploring the market. Our clear goal is to extend Upa’s [Dayot Upamecano] contract. That’s our ultimate goal. If that doesn’t work out, we have to be prepared. We would be foolish not to. That’s the reason. I’ve not confirmed anything, but we are active in the market.”

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has acknowledged that the Eagles will have to part ways with Guehi next summer. He stated, “I think Marc has already told us that he doesn’t intend to sign a new contract, so he will leave next year. The club wanted him to stay and offered a new contract, but he declined, expressing his desire for a different path. This is normal, and our focus now is on how to manage this situation effectively.”

Liverpool had previously attempted to secure Guehi’s services last summer, coming close to finalizing a deal, only for Crystal Palace to withdraw at the last minute when they failed to find a suitable replacement. The collapse of the £35 million ($46.6 million) transfer significantly altered the 25-year-old’s future, and with his contract nearing its end, clubs are aware he could leave for free in 2026. Bayern is poised to initiate talks as the window for pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs opens on January 1.

Additionally, AS reports that Real Madrid has ‘rejected’ the opportunity to sign three high-profile players ahead of the January transfer window, including Ibrahima Konate, Dayot Upamecano, and Ruben Neves, all of whom have contracts expiring on June 30, 2026. This decision comes as part of Real’s strategic planning amidst the pressure faced by head coach Xabi Alonso.