Guehi gives Crystal Palace a transfer dilemma. Image credit: crystal Palace via X
(The Post News)– Crystal Palace are bracing for a pivotal decision in the coming transfer window with captain Marc Guehi’s. The captain is refusing to extend his contract beyond 2026, pushing the club toward a potential January sale. The 23-year-old defender, long regarded as one of the Premier League’s most consistent centre-backs. Guehi informed the Eagles that he will not sign fresh terms placing pressure on Palace.
Guehi’s current deal runs until June 2026, but with no progress in renewal talks and major European clubs circling. Palace risk losing him at a sharply reduced fee next year, or worse, for free in 18 months. As a result, club officials are now understood to be open to negotiating his departure once the winter window opens.
Guehi speaking ahead of this weekend’s league clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Manager Oliver Glasner addressed the growing speculation but attempted to temper the noise. “I don’t know it will be the club’s decision. Marc demonstrates 100% commitment to Crystal Palace every week. We have 15 matches until January 10th, so there’s no need to focus on a potential sale right now. Of course we are prepared for all eventualities, but I don’t know what will happen,” Glasner said on Friday.
He is expected to return to action for Palace after shaking off the physical concerns. Which forced a withdrawal from the latest England squad. Guehi’s comeback offers a timely boost to the side. But his future remains a looming storyline that could overshadow the club’s mid-season plans.
Guehi nearly moved to Liverpool in September
The centre-back came close to sealing a dramatic late switch to Liverpool on deadline day in September. In a deal believed to be worth around £35 million, Palace blocked the move. Unable to source a replacement of equal calibre before the window slammed shut. But with Guehi’s contract slowly winding down and interest only growing, their stance appears to be softening.
Real Madrid are among the clubs said to be monitoring his situation ahead of January. With early negotiations expected to be possible once the window reopens. The upcoming months mark Palace’s final realistic opportunity to secure a significant fee for Guehi.
Crystal Place dilemma
As the countdown to January continues, Palace face a familiar modern-football dilemma. Retain a key figure at the risk of losing him for nothing. Or they sanction a sale that reshapes their defensive core mid-season. One thing is certain Marc Guehi’s future will dominate the Selhurst Park agenda for weeks to come.