Real Madrid battling Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool for Premier League star – Romano | OneFootball

With Real Madrid chasing a new centre-back signing for the summer of 2026, Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace has emerged as a key target.

The 25-year-old England star is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, having decided not to renew his contract with the Eagles.

Given his age, pedigree, and experience at the highest level, the former Chelsea defender has become one of the most sought-after players in the market heading into 2026.

Elite competition for Guehi

Indeed, as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, as many as four elite clubs are battling to sign Guehi for free in the summer of 2026.

Real Madrid are very much in the race for the 25-year-old Crystal Palace captain, but face stiff competition from arch-rivals Barcelona, who have already made a call to the player’s camp asking for information.

Everybody wants Guehi. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

Moreover, Bayern Munich are also very much in the hunt and have already held two meetings with Guehi’s entourage to explore the possibility of a summer transfer.

However, any move might depend on the future of Dayot Upamecano, with the Bayern Munich defender, another target for Real Madrid, still in negotiations over a contract renewal.

Finally, Premier League champions Liverpool are also in the race to sign Guehi, having missed out on his capture late last summer.

Recent reports from England have suggested that even Manchester City are considering a move for the former Chelsea prospect.

So, it goes without saying that there appears to be a big battle on the horizon for the transfer of Guehi, who can speak to the club of his choice starting from January when he enters the final six months of his deal.