
Palace Face Guehi Dilemma: Sell Now or Lose Him for Free?
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi could be heading for one of Europe’s biggest stages as top clubs circle ahead of the January transfer window. With his contract at Selhurst Park set to expire in 2026, the London club faces a huge call — cash in now or risk losing him for free next summer.
The Clock Is Ticking
The 23-year-old England defender is one of the Premier League’s most sought-after talents. Palace reportedly plan to listen to serious offers this winter after holding on to Guehi in the summer — when a last-minute move to Liverpool collapsed because the club couldn’t secure a replacement.
Now, interest has only intensified. Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich are all said to be preparing their moves, with European clubs allowed to open talks in January. Premier League sides will have to wait until his deal officially runs out.

European Giants Have the Edge
The Spanish powerhouses are in pole position. They can sign a pre-contract agreement in January — a move English clubs are banned from. That gives Real Madrid and Barcelona a major advantage as they look to secure one of Europe’s top young defenders without paying a massive fee.
Inside sources suggest Palace value Guehi at over £40 million, but that price could drop sharply once he enters the final months of his deal.
Palace’s Dilemma
Palace face a familiar problem: sell their captain now and rebuild, or hope he stays and risk losing him for nothing. The club has pulled off surprise retentions before — convincing Michael Olise to stay despite heavy interest — but insiders admit Guehi’s departure seems inevitable.

A Smart Player in Control
Those close to Guehi describe him as focused, mature, and strategic. Rather than being distracted by transfer speculation, he’s expected to stay fully committed to Palace until May — knowing that strong performances could land him a dream move and a major payday.
Former Palace boss Alan Pardew believes the failed Liverpool move might have worked in Guehi’s favor:
“Marc’s in a great position now — even better than before. He’s got options at the very top level. Every club will want him.”Whatever happens next, one thing is clear — Marc Guehi’s next move will shape his career and could become one of the biggest transfer stories of 2025.