Tottenham may turn attention to Premier League defender after Marc Guehi transfer setback

Tottenham Hotspur Could Shift Focus to Jarrad Branthwaite After Setback in Pursuit of Marc Guehi

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi appears to have hit a significant stumbling block, potentially forcing the North London club to explore alternative defensive reinforcements this summer. The England international has long been on Spurs’ radar, with numerous reputable sources indicating that he remains high on the club’s list of transfer targets.

Among the latest to reaffirm Tottenham’s interest was trusted journalist Alasdair Gold, who revealed that Guehi has been a long-term target for the Lilywhites. However, Gold noted that a successful move may depend on Spurs offering the player assurances of consistent first-team football—an expectation that could complicate negotiations.

Tottenham’s hopes of signing the 24-year-old have also been made more difficult by growing competition from other Premier League clubs, most notably Newcastle United. Reports suggest that Eddie Howe is a keen admirer of Guehi and is planning to submit a formal offer in the coming weeks, which could further inflate the player’s valuation and complicate Spurs’ efforts.

Now, a new update from The Times has delivered an unwelcome twist for Tottenham fans. The outlet claims that Guehi, whose contract at Selhurst Park runs until the summer of 2026 but includes a key clause next year, is not enthusiastic about a move to Tottenham. This stance reportedly became evident when Spurs attempted to sign him during the January transfer window, only to be met with resistance from the player’s camp.

With their pursuit of Guehi potentially at a dead end, Tottenham are believed to be assessing other defensive targets. One name that continues to resurface is Everton’s highly rated centre-back, Jarrad Branthwaite. According to previous reports, including from The Sun, Spurs have been monitoring the 21-year-old and could find themselves in a transfer battle with Manchester United, who are also showing strong interest in the England defender.

Branthwaite enjoyed an impressive 2023–24 campaign with Everton, emerging as one of the Premier League’s standout young defenders. His composure on the ball, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game have earned him praise and suitors alike, placing him on the radar of top clubs looking to bolster their defensive ranks.

Although missing out on Guehi may seem like a setback, it might not be entirely negative for Tottenham. There have been reports suggesting that Guehi was being lined up as a possible replacement for Cristian Romero, who has attracted interest from several European sides, including Atletico Madrid. However, recent developments indicate that Romero is now more likely to remain at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Club chairman Daniel Levy is reportedly intent on fending off Atletico’s interest and retaining the services of the Argentine defender. This objective seems increasingly attainable, especially after Romero himself publicly declared his happiness at the club, helping to calm speculation about a potential summer departure.

If Romero stays and Tottenham manage to land a rising star like Branthwaite, the North London side could significantly strengthen their defensive line without the need to compromise stability or depth. While the door may be closing on Guehi, it could be opening to a younger, equally promising alternative.

As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Tottenham’s next move in the market. Will they make a renewed push for Guehi, or will they pivot fully toward Branthwaite and other emerging defensive prospects?