Report: Another European giant has joined the race to sign Crystal Palace star | OneFootball

Atlético Madrid Circle as Marc Guéhi Becomes the Defender Everyone Wants

Rising Interest in Marc Guéhi

Europe’s winter window often promises drama, but the noise around Marc Guéhi already carries the feel of a defining transfer story. Marca’s report highlights growing competition for the Crystal Palace centre back, and the emergence of Atlético Madrid as a serious contender has reshaped the landscape.

The Italian journalist Matteo Moretto underlined how intense the pursuit has become, confirming that the 25 year old is now firmly on the radar of some of the continent’s most formidable sides. His words were unequivocal: “The latest news is that Atlético Madrid has also contacted its representatives,” adding that “There are English teams, Bayern Munich, Barcelona… but also Atlético, who are very attentive and very interested.”

Guéhi’s contract runs until 2026, yet the sense of an open path is unmistakable. Marca note that he will be free to begin talks with clubs in January, and Moretto even reminded readers that the defender came close to joining Liverpool in the summer. The competition remains fierce. As he put it, “There are many clubs after him… but Atlético Madrid is also very attentive and very interested in Marc Guehi.”

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Atlético Madrid Enter the Frame

At Atlético, the interest appears strategic rather than speculative. Mateo Alemany is reportedly keen to lead the effort, viewing Guéhi as a signing with European weight and long term value. For Atlético, the chance to secure a defender with Premier League pedigree, leadership traits and consistency is significant.

Guéhi fits the profile of a player able to anchor a defence for seasons, not months. His development at Crystal Palace has been defined by composure, positional maturity and a willingness to take responsibility in key moments. Even opposition supporters often acknowledge his influence at Selhurst Park. 

Real Madrid and Wider Market Shifts

Marca’s update extended further into Spain’s transfer movements, including Real Madrid’s decision to pull out of the chase for Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté. Moretto stated with clarity: “The information is simply that Real Madrid has dropped out of the race for him and has already informed Liverpool.” Attention in Madrid has shifted toward securing Antonio Rüdiger’s new contract, a choice that shapes the centre back market elsewhere.

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There was also movement around Nico Paz, with Real intent on finalising a deal that returns him to the club in June. “He’s going to have many offers, but Real Madrid and Como will talk soon,” said Moretto, before noting that Cesc Fàbregas would have “many suitors” considering his success in Italy.

Marca’s coverage signals a winter window building towards significance, with Guéhi’s future at the heart of it. Atlético Madrid have rarely shied from major defensive investments, and this chase may define their trajectory.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

For Crystal Palace fans, this report will prompt immediate anxiety. Guéhi is not only their defensive anchor, he is part of the club’s identity rebuild under Oliver Glasner. Fans recognise that his blend of authority and calmness is difficult to replace. The prospect of losing him during, or shortly after, the January window would feel like a setback in both sporting and emotional terms. Many Palace supporters would insist that the club should hold out for a significant fee, likely north of previous Premier League defender sales, given his age and international standing. 

Atlético Madrid fans will view the story differently. For them, the idea of Guéhi competing in a Diego Simeone style system is exciting. His comfort in one-v-one scenarios, his aerial strength and his ability to play in a compact structure make him a natural fit. Atlético fans will also see this as a sign that the club is intent on reloading its defence with younger, high ceiling players. The message would be received with optimism. For a fan base that values grit and intelligence, Guéhi’s name carries promise.