Newcastle United have overtaken Chelsea in the race to sign Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, but other Premier League clubs are also ready to pounce, according to English media reports.
Eddie Howe and his staff saw several bids rejected last summer for the 24-year-old centre-back, including a £65m plus bonuses bid rejected by Palace in the final minutes of the transfer window. Although Guehi has decided to stay at Selhurst Park for the 2024/25 season, speculation over his future has not ceased, particularly given his impressive performances this season.
The south London club are preparing for another bid at the end of the season, but with his contract coming to an end, they are unlikely to be able to demand as much as they did last year. Guehi is valued at around €55m by Palace, and clubs such as Europa League finalists Tottenham and Nottingham Forest are also seriously considering the move.
Meanwhile, Chelsea remain at a distance from negotiations, without making any concrete steps forward, while Newcastle have sent strong signals that they will not give up on Guehi. Potential losers in this race are also Bournemouth for Dean Huijsen, although he is an independent target.
Guehi has been tight-lipped about his future, revealing nothing about the club he will join next summer. However, with Palace keen to rebuild and Newcastle looking to strengthen their central defence, there are few who don't see the defender as a top target.
At the end of the season, when offers are put on the table, Guehi's decision is expected to determine the extent of the success of the negotiations, as Newcastle are now exploring every option to secure a replacement who can provide stability to the defence and come with international experience. We recall that Guehi shone with his performances for England during the last European Championship, despite failing to lift the trophy.
