Marc Guehi’s preferred destination revealed as journalist confirms Newcastle United to revive interest
Newcastle United Could Reignite Pursuit of Marc Guehi Amid Transfer Shift
Newcastle United are reportedly considering a renewed approach for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, nearly a year after their original attempts to land the England international ended in frustration. The Magpies were left disappointed last summer following prolonged and ultimately fruitless negotiations with Palace chairman Steve Parish, who held firm despite weeks of talks and multiple proposals from the Tyneside club.
Back then, Newcastle’s interest was met with resistance, and it became evident that Palace had no real intention of selling, regardless of the offers on the table. The drawn-out saga not only failed to produce a deal but also left a lingering sense of irritation within the Newcastle hierarchy towards how the situation was handled.
However, the situation has shifted dramatically twelve months on. With Guehi now entering the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace are no longer in such a strong position to dictate terms. The balance of power has tilted in favour of potential buyers, with the threat of losing the player for free next summer looming large over the south London club.
Reports now suggest that a fee in the region of £40 million could be sufficient to secure Guehi’s services – a significant drop from the £70 million valuation Palace stuck to during the January transfer window. Yet, despite the more favorable conditions, Newcastle may still face challenges in bringing the 24-year-old centre-back to St James’ Park.
According to The Guardian journalist Ed Aarons, Newcastle are indeed considering reigniting their pursuit of Guehi. However, Aarons also claims that Liverpool remain interested in the defender, and crucially, that Anfield would be Guehi’s preferred destination should a formal offer be made. Aarons noted:
> “Understand Crystal Palace yet to receive offers for Marc Guehi, who is said to be happy to stay at Selhurst Park and see out final year of his contract. Liverpool still thought to be his preferred option but Newcastle could revive interest. Palace want £40m (rejected £70m in Jan).”
This presents a potentially decisive stumbling block for Newcastle. Should Liverpool firm up their interest, it would be difficult – if not impossible – for Newcastle to win the race for his signature, with the lure of Champions League football and Jurgen Klopp’s project proving a more attractive proposition for many top-level players.
There are also growing whispers that Guehi may be willing to run down his deal and depart Palace on a free transfer next summer, allowing him to pick his next destination without the financial constraints of a transfer fee. Such a move would open the door to elite clubs across Europe, potentially pricing Newcastle out altogether.
That said, Liverpool’s interest might not be as strong as it once was. The Reds are currently being heavily linked with a sensational move for Newcastle’s own Alexander Isak – a transfer that could smash the British record – and their focus may well have shifted to strengthening their attack rather than their defence. This development could open the door for Newcastle to make a serious bid for Guehi, particularly if other suitors hold back.
Should a deal for Guehi ultimately prove unattainable once again, Newcastle do have alternative defensive targets in mind. Italian starlet Giorgio Scalvini is believed to be high on their wishlist, and the club’s recruitment team has been preparing contingency options throughout the summer.
Nevertheless, with less than two weeks remaining until the Premier League campaign kicks off, time is quickly running out for Newcastle to complete the final pieces of their summer business. Manager Eddie Howe is keen to have a settled squad before the season opener and adding a top-quality centre-back remains a priority.
The coming days could prove pivotal in determining whether Newcastle will reignite talks for Guehi, shift focus to other targets, or risk entering the new season with their defensive ranks still lacking reinforcements.