Newcastle United have encountered a significant financial obstacle in their attempt to sign England international and Crystal Palace central defender Marc Guehi. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, the Magpies may be forced to explore alternative options as negotiations with Crystal Palace have reached an impasse.
Despite a relatively subdued transfer window, Newcastle have still managed to secure five new signings: Lewis Hall, William Osula, Lloyd Kelly, and goalkeepers Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy. Kelly, in particular, was brought in to strengthen the team’s central defense, but manager Eddie Howe is eager to add another quality defender to solidify their squad as they prepare for a return to the Champions League.
Marc Guehi, who was born in the Ivory Coast but represents England, has become a highly sought-after player following his impressive performances in Euro 2024 under Gareth Southgate. His displays have caught the attention of several Premier League giants, including Manchester United and Liverpool. However, these clubs have since shifted their focus elsewhere, leaving Newcastle as the frontrunners in the race to sign the 24-year-old defender.
The challenge for Newcastle lies in the disparity between their valuation of Guehi and the price Crystal Palace is demanding. Ornstein has labeled Guehi as “One to Watch,” highlighting the club’s determination to secure his services. However, despite a series of proposals, Palace has rejected all offers thus far, holding firm on their asking price of £65 million, with an additional £5 million in potential add-ons.
Newcastle’s most recent offer reportedly reached £60 million guaranteed, plus another £5 million in add-ons. Despite this, the club is unwilling to exceed this amount, feeling it represents their upper limit for the former Chelsea player.
With Crystal Palace refusing to budge on their valuation, Newcastle is now considering alternative defensive targets. Among the names on their radar are Trevoh Chalobah of Chelsea and Maxence Lacroix of VfL Wolfsburg, both of whom have been linked with the Eagles, as reported by journalist Graeme Bailey.
Additionally, Newcastle is also exploring the possibility of signing Liverpool’s Joe Gomez. According to HITC Sport, the 27-year-old defender, who has experience in both left-back and central defensive roles, is attracting interest from several clubs, including Aston Villa. Gomez’s representatives have reportedly been in contact with various Premier League teams as they search for a new home for the 2024/25 season.
The 15-cap England international played a vital role for Liverpool last season, amassing 50 appearances across all competitions, totaling 3,133 minutes on the pitch. However, with Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp no longer considering Gomez as part of his future plans, the door is open for potential buyers like Newcastle to make their move this summer.
Newcastle’s pursuit of a top-tier central defender is crucial as they aim to compete on multiple fronts in the upcoming season. Whether they succeed in securing Guehi or pivot to other targets, the next few weeks will be decisive in shaping the club’s defensive lineup.
