Manchester United join Real Madrid in race for in-demand Premier League defender – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s search for a new central defender is intensifying, but the club could now face serious competition in their pursuit of Marc Guehi, with Manchester United joining the race.

According to an update from Defensa Central, the Crystal Palace captain has emerged as one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe. 

The 25-year-old’s contract runs until 2026, and Palace manager Oliver Glasner has revealed that Guehi has no intention of renewing his deal. 

That stance has inevitably attracted the attention of several top clubs and Real Madrid are among the first to make their interest known.

Real Madrid have him on their agenda

The report explains that Real Madrid have been closely tracking Guehi’s progress for months, seeing him as a potential long-term addition to Xabi Alonso’s defensive setup. 

The club view him as a balanced defender with strong leadership qualities and excellent positional awareness.

However, the arrival of Manchester United in the race could complicate matters. The English giants are also in desperate need of defensive reinforcements, with injuries and inconsistent performances plaguing their backline. 

Marc Guehi will leave Crystal Palace in 2026. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

Their entry into the negotiations means Real Madrid might have to accelerate their plans and prepare an official offer sooner than expected.

Guehi will leave Palace

It is said that Guehi’s representatives are open to listening to offers during the January transfer window, which could push Real Madrid into a crucial decision phase. 

For Real Madrid, this might be the ideal moment to act before Premier League clubs take control of the race.

Furthermore, adding to the growing list of suitors, Inter Milan have also entered the picture. 

The Italian side are planning a defensive overhaul next summer, with veterans Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij both nearing the end of their contracts. 

With Manchester United and Inter Milan both circling, Madrid need to make a decision soon to avoid another missed opportunity in defence.