“Super reliable” – Chelsea advised to sign this PL star after duo struggle against Bayern Munich
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Chelsea are actively pursuing the signing of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who will be a free agent at the end of the 2025/26 season. The 25-year-old, a former Chelsea academy graduate and current England international, has attracted interest from multiple top Premier League clubs including Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Newcastle. Chelsea see Guehi as a key player to strengthen their defense and leadership on and off the pitch following a season where defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed.
Earlier in 2025, a transfer to Liverpool collapsed on deadline day because Palace failed to secure a suitable replacement for their captain. Despite this, Liverpool remain favorites, but Chelsea have grown increasingly confident that Guehi is interested in returning to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea’s manager Enzo Maresca views Guehi as a pivotal figure for their ambitions, especially as they search for Champions League qualification.
Negotiations are expected to intensify in the summer rather than the winter window. Chelsea are prepared to wait patiently, partly because Guehi is entering the final 12 months of his contract, potentially lowering Palace's asking price, currently set at £70 million to deter mid-season sales. Chelsea also stand to benefit from a sell-on clause included in Guehi’s original transfer from Chelsea to Palace in 2021, though this adds complexity to any transaction.
Guehi’s performances at Euro 2024 have further elevated his reputation, highlighting his composure, leadership, and ball-playing skills. Chelsea regard him as a crucial defensive reinforcement who can immediately impact the squad. While Arsenal are also interested, Chelsea believe Guehi’s desire for regular playing time aligns better with their plans, making them strong contenders to secure his signing.
Overall, Chelsea’s strategy involves a measured approach: they continue talks with Crystal Palace but are ready to wait until the summer to finalize the deal, ensuring they do not lose out amid competition from other top clubs. Guehi’s return is seen as both a footballing upgrade and a smart financial move for Chelsea’s rebuilding efforts.
PP