Real Madrid have an advantage over Barca in the Marc Guehi free transfer case
Marc Guehi is expected to leave Crystal Palace on a free transfer at the end of the season. Real Madrid beat Barcelona in need of defensive reinforcements, linked with Bellingham–Alexander-Arnold.
Real Madrid are leading Barcelona in the race to sign Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who is expected to leave on a free transfer at the end of the season, according to The Sun. Liverpool and Bayern Munich are also keeping a close eye on him, but Real's squad and financial situation make them the most likely destination.
Developments: Guehi is a free agent at the end of the season, negotiations open from January
- According to The Sun, Marc Guehi's contract with Crystal Palace ends at the end of the season and he is expected to leave on a free.
- Last summer, Liverpool pursued the deal fiercely but it stalled because Palace did not want to sell and Guehi was not ready to leave.
- Guehi is free to negotiate from January. Palace may consider selling for a fee, but the 25-year-old is said to be determined to leave for free in June for better treatment.
Why Real Madrid has the advantage
In Spain, Real Madrid are said to be in the most advantageous position. The club sees Guehi as a successor to aging central defenders such as David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger, while Eder Militao has yet to reach his peak form after injury.
Another factor mentioned is that the link with compatriots, specifically Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold, could have contributed to convincing Guehi to choose Madrid.
Barcelona in a difficult situation, Bayern and Liverpool ambush
Barcelona need to add a centre-back due to injuries to several key players, but financial constraints could leave them at a disadvantage if Guehi prioritises high wages.
In Germany, Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has publicly admitted the club are looking for a top-class centre-back for next season. Liverpool are said to be ready to restart negotiations in January if Palace open the door to a sale, but the player's choice will be decisive.
Tactical perspective: Strengthening the defensive axis
Real Madrid are looking to revamp their central defence to ensure continuity. With a busy schedule, a centre-back of Guehi’s age is seen as a suitable piece for the rebuilding phase, while Barcelona need more depth to reduce the risk of injury.
Statements and signals from the parties
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has all but confirmed he will be unable to keep his player: “He has turned down the offer and will look for a new challenge after this season.”
Max Eberl confirmed that Bayern Munich will add a world-class central defender next season, thereby heating up the race.
Competitive map and timeline
| Club | Pursuit status |
|---|---|
| Real Madrid | Supposed to have the advantage; need to refresh the defense |
| Barcelona | There is a need, but financial difficulties |
| Liverpool | Once pursued; may renegotiate January |
| Bayern Munich | Looking for a world-class centre-back for next season |
Key milestones
- January: Guehi free to negotiate with new club; Palace consider selling for fee.
- June: Guehi is said to want to leave on a free transfer.
- Sources say the summer of 2026 could be when the deal comes into focus.
When the winter window opens, the balance will depend on Guehi's choice: accept the offer in January or wait until June to optimize the treatment. At present, Real Madrid is still considered the most powerful destination.
