Bayern hold the upper hand in transfer race for Marc Guehi | OneFootball

FC Bayern is actively participating in the race for Marc Guehi and, according to a report from England, might even have a good chance in the transfer poker. The Crystal Palace center-back is among the most sought-after defenders in Europe.

As reported by Sky-UK chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol, the Munich team is one of several top clubs targeting the 25-year-old captain of the English FA Cup winner. Besides Bayern, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and several Premier League clubs are also showing interest.

But here's the crucial point: An English FA rule could give the German record champions a decisive advantage.

FA rule gives the record champions an ace up their sleeve

Photo: Getty Images

According to FA regulations, English clubs can no longer sign pre-contracts with each other more than a month before the expiration of an existing contract. It's different for foreign clubs – they can start negotiations six months before the contract ends.

This means: Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern could officially speak with Guehi and make a pre-agreement starting January 2026 – Premier League clubs cannot.

"Clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and FC Bayern are definitely at an advantage," said Solhekol. For FCB, who have been considering a possible signing of the defense chief for months, this would be a clear advantage – especially if negotiations with Dayot Upamecano continue to be challenging.

Interestingly, according to BILD information, Bayern wants to approach the player's side directly in January and try their luck.

Guehi is having a strong season: In seven Premier League matches, he has played the full distance and collected two scoring points. Since his move from Chelsea to Crystal Palace in 2021, he has developed into the defense chief and a leading player – and was a key player in the FA Cup triumph under coach Oliver Glasner.

Competition from Spain remains dangerous

Despite FC Bayern's advantageous position, Solhekol does not see the Munich team as the favorite in the poker for the English national player. "If I had to bet money, I would say that Guehi will end up at Real Madrid or Barcelona in the summer," the journalist explained.

For Bayern, Guehi would still be an ideal candidate should Upamecano actually leave the club in 2026.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.