Barcelona and Real Madrid set to battle in the race to sign Crystal Palace star | OneFootball

Real Madrid and Barcelona battle for Crystal Palace defender in major transfer race

Spanish giants circle Crystal Palace star

Real Madrid and Barcelona are once again locked in direct competition, this time over the future of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guéhi. According to Fichajes, both clubs have intensified their pursuit of the 25-year-old centre-back, who has informed manager Oliver Glasner that he will not renew his contract, which expires in June 2026.

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Guéhi’s decision not to extend has sparked immediate interest across Europe, with Real Madrid viewing him as a long-term successor to their established central defenders, while Barcelona see him as a cost-effective solution in their ongoing rebuild.

Glasner addressed the situation in a recent press conference, confirming that Palace respect the player’s stance. “Marc has been an example inside and outside the pitch. If he decides to try a new challenge, we will support him,” said the Austrian coach.

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The England international, who joined Palace from Chelsea in 2021, has become one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders. His leadership, consistency and composure have caught the attention of Europe’s elite, and with his contract in its final 12 months, the Eagles face a crucial decision in the January window.

Real Madrid view Guéhi as defensive heir

Real Madrid’s interest is driven by both strategy and necessity. Fichajes reports that president Florentino Pérez and his sporting department see Guéhi as “a perfect fit” for the club’s defensive evolution. With David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger entering the latter stages of their careers, Madrid are actively planning for the next generation of defenders.

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Guéhi’s ability to play under pressure, combined with his Premier League experience and international pedigree, make him an ideal candidate. His contract situation also presents a rare opportunity for a financially measured move, something that aligns with Real’s transfer model in recent years.

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An internal source told Fichajes: “Real Madrid want players who can contribute immediately but also develop into leaders. Guéhi’s maturity and calmness have impressed everyone who has watched him closely.”

Madrid’s defensive rebuild, centred around emerging stars like Éder Militão, could benefit enormously from Guéhi’s presence. The club value his aerial strength, discipline and positional intelligence, traits that mirror their modern defensive philosophy.

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Barcelona’s counter-plan for Guéhi

Barcelona’s pursuit is equally determined. Sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick are targeting players who combine technical quality with athleticism, and Guéhi’s name has been underlined on their shortlist.

His potential free transfer in 2026 represents a financially attractive opportunity for a club still managing the aftershocks of its economic restructuring. Fichajes suggests that Barcelona view the Palace captain as a potential long-term replacement for Andreas Christensen, while also offering depth alongside Ronald Araújo and Jules Koundé.

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Sources close to the club have indicated that Barcelona are “willing to move quickly” to present a project that appeals to Guéhi’s ambition. They believe the lure of regular Champions League football and the chance to be part of a youthful, rebuilding side could be decisive.

Palace face pivotal decision

For Crystal Palace, the equation is simple but painful. Sell early or risk losing their captain for free in 2026. The January window could therefore become a pivotal moment, with the club potentially forced into negotiations if a significant bid arrives.

Guéhi’s professionalism has never been in question, and Glasner’s comments underline mutual respect. Yet, the prospect of two of Europe’s biggest clubs battling for his signature reflects the scale of his rise.

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Guéhi’s progress symbolises everything positive about Palace’s recent years: smart recruitment, faith in youth, and a clear pathway to leadership. losing him, especially with Real Madrid and Barcelona circling, feels like an inevitable consequence of success.

Most fans would acknowledge that Palace cannot realistically compete with Europe’s giants, but they will expect the club to handle the situation astutely. If Guéhi’s exit is unavoidable, Palace must secure a substantial fee in January rather than allow him to walk away for nothing in 2026.

There is also pride attached. Seeing one of their own captains courted by Real Madrid and Barcelona validates the quality of development under Glasner. Supporters will hope that any future sale helps strengthen the squad and reinforces the club’s foundations.

Ultimately, Palace fans know how rare it is for a player of Guéhi’s calibre to stay beyond his natural cycle at Selhurst Park. The key will be ensuring his departure, if it comes, leaves the club stronger both financially and reputationally.