Directly from top Insider: Tottenham accelerate Marc Guehi deal after bid rejected

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly poised to intensify their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, as they prepare for a return to the UEFA Champions League next season.

According to former Spurs scout Mick Brown, the North London club is set to make a serious push to land the highly-rated England international as they look to reinforce their defensive line ahead of a pivotal campaign under Ange Postecoglou.

Brown, who has held influential scouting roles at Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers and maintains strong ties within the football world, revealed to Football Insider that Guehi is now Spurs’ top defensive target. The 24-year-old has impressed with his leadership, composure, and reliability at Crystal Palace, making him an ideal candidate to bolster Tottenham’s backline.

Defensive Concerns Spark Guehi Interest

Tottenham’s growing interest in Guehi comes at a time of uncertainty regarding Cristian Romero’s future at the club. The Argentine centre-back has drawn interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, casting doubt over his long-term prospects in North London. As reported by Football Insider on 23 May, Romero is expected to leave Spurs this summer after a frustrating, injury-disrupted season.

This potential departure has forced Spurs to consider alternatives in central defence, and Guehi has emerged as their preferred option. With Champions League football secured for next season, the club believes now is the right moment to revisit their interest in the Palace captain — an interest that has persisted for months.

Spurs Rekindle Guehi Pursuit After Previous Rejection

Tottenham had already attempted to sign Guehi earlier this year, submitting a reported £70 million bid in January. That offer was ultimately rejected by Crystal Palace, who are keen to retain one of their most important players. Nevertheless, Spurs have remained determined and are now prepared to reignite their pursuit with renewed confidence following their European qualification.

Mick Brown emphasized that Tottenham’s defensive situation remains a concern, and that Guehi’s profile perfectly matches what the club is seeking. “There’s still some instability at centre-back that Tottenham are desperate to resolve,” Brown explained. “They rate Micky van de Ven very highly, but there’s lingering doubt about Romero’s consistency and fitness. That’s where someone like Guehi comes in — he’s remarkably dependable, week in, week out.”

Brown added, “He’s the kind of player you can trust to deliver a solid performance every game. He brings experience, calmness, and leadership to the backline — all qualities Spurs are currently lacking.”

Competition for Guehi Heating Up

Tottenham, however, are not alone in their admiration for the England defender. Brown revealed that several other Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Liverpool, and Newcastle United, are also monitoring Guehi’s situation closely. Chelsea, in particular, are believed to be keen on re-signing their former academy product.
Despite this competition, Spurs remain optimistic that their Champions League status and clear defensive needs could give them an edge in the race for Guehi’s signature. Ange Postecoglou sees the centre-back as a foundational piece in his efforts to build a more resilient and structured defensive unit.

Atletico Madrid Circle as Romero’s Future Remains in Doubt

Meanwhile, speculation around Cristian Romero’s future continues to gain momentum. Football Insider recently reported that Atletico Madrid are intensifying their interest in the World Cup-winning defender. Sources claim that Atletico boss Diego Simeone is a major admirer of Romero and is eager to bring him to La Liga as he looks to rejuvenate his squad.
The report also suggests that Tottenham are more open to parting ways with Romero than with Van de Ven, despite interest in both defenders. The club views Romero’s potential exit as an opportunity to reconfigure their backline, and they may be willing to entertain serious offers should they arrive.

A Critical Summer for Tottenham’s Defence

As the summer transfer window approaches, Tottenham’s defensive strategy will be under close scrutiny. The possible exit of Romero and the ongoing chase for Marc Guehi could significantly reshape their backline ahead of a demanding 2025-26 campaign.

If they can successfully land Guehi, Spurs will not only be securing one of the most consistent and composed defenders in the Premier League, but they’ll also be taking a major step toward building a squad capable of competing at the highest level — both domestically and in Europe.
The coming weeks promise to be decisive, as Tottenham prepare to back Ange Postecoglou in the transfer market and turn defensive uncertainty into a position of strength.

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