Crystal Palace line-up January Marc Guehi replacement

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Crystal Palace are preparing for the potential departure of their captain and central defender Marc Guehi during the January 2026 transfer window or by the summer of 2026 when his contract expires. Clubs such as Liverpool, Manchester United, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich have shown strong interest in Guehi, with Liverpool emerging as the most likely destination if he moves in January. Palace had previously rejected a Liverpool bid of around £35 million in the summer, hoping to retain Guehi for the remainder of the current season despite knowing he may leave for free next summer.

Looking ahead, Crystal Palace have identified Ousmane Diomande, a young centre-back from Sporting CP, as their primary target to replace Guehi. The 21-year-old Ivorian defender is regarded as one of Europe's most promising talents, combining physical strength with composure and quality ball-playing ability. Palace initially pursued Diomande in the summer but were rebuffed by Sporting, who value him highly and are eager to secure a long-term contract renewal rather than negotiate a mid-season sale. Sporting’s asking price is reportedly around €55 million (£48 million), though their official release clause is about €80 million (£70 million).

Crystal Palace’s management view Diomande as a long-term successor to their captain and plan to renew their efforts to acquire him in January, despite Sporting’s reluctance to sell mid-season. Meanwhile, Guehi has made clear his intention not to remain a Palace player beyond the 2025–26 season, prompting the club to strategize accordingly both for the short term and future defensive stability.