Chelsea is keeping close tabs on the Crystal Palace defender, Marc Guéhi while weighing up a notch to boost their defensive alternatives this month, according to what was told to ESPN.
The 24-YO footballer, who spent most of his career at Chelsea, now has only 18 months remaining in his contract and is unlikely to re-sign a new one.
In this article, we will explore Marc Guéhi’s current situation at Crystal Palace, Chelsea’s defensive concerns and transfer strategy, and whether Chelsea will make a move for Guéhi.
Guéhi’s Current Situation at Crystal Palace
Marc Guéhi has made more than 100 appearances in the Premier League and collected 22 senior caps for England along his journey.
The defender is the most valued member of the Crystal Palace, worth £70 million ($7.4 million) but the amount is still unclear, and whether it has changed at present.
Although it is entirely speculative, Guéhi has only about 18 months left in his contract at Crystal Palace and there are serious talks between Newcastle United and the Palace over the move.
Several clubs in the Premier League, including Chelsea, have been monitoring and tracking, especially with a keen interest from the Castle’s bid last summer.
The Palace rejected many bids for Guéhi in the past as they desire to keep their defensive trial intact (Guéhi, Michael Olise, and Joachim Anderson)
Chelsea’s Defensive Concerns and Transfer Strategy
ESPN received from many sources that there is no contact between the two clubs at present.
Chelsea is willing to sign a new center-back after Wesley Fofana was lost to a serious injury in his hamstring, leaving the club fearing that he could be missing the rest of the season.
Benoît Badiashile has also been sidelined till next month due to his thigh injury while Enzo Maresca opted to hand over the promising 18-YO Josh Acheamping his very first start to the Premier League at Crystal Palace.
The injuries of key players have increased the need for defensive reinforcements. Chelsea is keen on strengthening their defense and Guéhi is the only potential candidate to fill the void.
The previous valuation of Guéhi stood at £70 million by Crystal Palace, which is quite an eye-watering amount. However, there could be a slight discount on this valuation thanks to the sell-on clause from Guéhi’s £18 million transfer to Palace in 2021.
Chelsea has privately insisted that there is no immediate pressure from the Profit and Sustainability Rules for selling players, but any sort of departure would strengthen the funds available for new signings.
Chelsea’s transfer activity could influence betting markets on football transfers, especially when it comes to odds on player movements and potential signings. This would require readers to keep an eye on the best football betting websites available online.
Players who are currently deemed surplus to the team’s requirements include Ben Chilwell, Cesare Casadei, and Carney Chukwuemeka.
Will Chelsea Make a Move for Guéhi?
All that said, there is still uncertainty surrounding the transfer since there is no direct contact between the two teams at this stage.
This could potentially unfold Marc Guéhi’s future based on the transfer strategy that Chelsea employs and the willingness of Crystal Palace to sell out their player.
The ongoing negotiations and the defensive needs for Chelsea have the potential to influence the decision for the transfer to happen.
