Newcastle United are back in for Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace as the club are determined to get the England international before the window closes.
According to GIVEMESPORT, Eddie Howe sees Guehi as a top target with him and influential figures at the club having made it clear to the club that signing a new central defender is the top priority this summer.
A £55m [$75m] bid has already been made for Anthony Elanga, but in the background plans are being made to strengthen the backline, and Guehi is at the top of that list.
Newcastle’s interest in Guehi isn’t unfounded. He’s been a star for Palace for the last few seasons, including the last one, where he made 44 appearances across all competitions and played a key role in their FA Cup win.
He’s a regular in the England squad and brings top-flight consistency that matches Newcastle’s Champions League ambitions, but his performances have not only caught the eye of the Tyneside club but also have a growing interest from other top clubs as well, most notably Liverpool.
With Jarell Quansah sold to Bayer Leverkusen for £35m [ $47m], the Merseyside club are actively looking to add another centre-back.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed Liverpool are in direct contact with Guehi’s camp, saying the player is “really appreciated” and further conversations are expected soon.
Romano also reported that Guehi will not be signing a contract extension at Palace, whose current deal expires in 2026, which could be a factor likely to influence the club’s willingness to sell.
Newcastle, however, are preparing for all outcomes.
Newcastle United have lined up two alternatives if they fail to land Marc Guehi
Newcastle are making sure they’re covered on all fronts and have identified two backup options in case their pursuit of the England international doesn’t go through.
Reports suggest the club has shifted its focus towards Marseille’s Leonardo Balerdi – a 26-year-old Argentine with Champions League experience and a price tag of around £30m [$40m].
They’re also keeping a close watch on Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini. The Italian side is hesitant to sell, but Newcastle view the 21-year-old as a long-term prospect and are maintaining dialogue should the Guehi move fall apart.
