English-Ivorian defender Marc Guehi weighs free-agent move as Europe’s elite circle
Marc Guehi’s transfer choice is shaping up to be one of 2026’s defining decisions, with Europe’s leading clubs positioning themselves for his signature.
The English-Ivorian centre-back, who was born in Abidjan before moving to London as a child, is attracting unprecedented attention as his Crystal Palace contract winds down.
Liverpool remain prominent contenders after trying to sign him last summer, but those negotiations no longer influence the process.
Sources close to the situation stress that Guehi has reset the entire conversation and is assessing every option with no preconceived preference.
The defender is leaning towards completing the season before leaving on a free transfer, a stance that has encouraged Bayern Munich.
The German champions believe this scenario gives them a strategic advantage, and early discussions with his representatives have already taken place. The prospect of linking up with Harry Kane has also featured in those exchanges.
Guehi’s role as Palace captain enhances his appeal, and clubs view the opportunity to recruit an England international at no fee as a rare market opening.
His expected salary demands are also understood to be below those of comparable players, which has strengthened interest across Europe.
The 25-year-old is gaining a clear picture of opportunities abroad, and early indications suggest he is open to moving outside England if the sporting project aligns with his long-term aims.
Real Madrid are monitoring the situation as they weigh centre-back options, with Ibrahima Konate and Dayot Upamecano also in their analysis.
Konate is thought to be their leading target, pending his response to Liverpool’s contract offer. Barcelona are similarly tracking Guehi as they prepare to reinforce their defence.
In England, Manchester United, Tottenham and Chelsea retain varying degrees of interest.
Chelsea have explored the idea of re-signing their academy product, but their January defensive plans complicate a summer approach. Spurs see themselves as outsiders, while United’s focus on midfield recruitment limits immediate movement.
