Marc Guehi Sparks Fierce Bidding War as New Rivals Challenge Liverpool, Barcelona, and Real Madrid
Atlético Madrid are said to be "extremely keen" on entering the fierce competition to acquire Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Speculation surrounding Guéhi's destination has been widespread well before this campaign kicked off. A last-minute transfer to Liverpool fell through on Deadline Day after Palace couldn't secure a suitable replacement.
Liverpool haven't abandoned their pursuit of the highly-regarded England defender—reports suggest the Merseyside club remains the sole team with genuine chances of completing a January deal—though they're far from being Guéhi's only suitors.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner revealed earlier this term that Guéhi has no plans to extend his current deal, which runs until June 30, 2026. This announcement has attracted numerous potential buyers, including Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Juventus among an expanding roster. Atlético Madrid now joins this impressive lineup.
Diego Simeone's team are "closely monitoring" the circumstances and have already contacted Guéhi's agents, according to MARCA. Atlético have established a pattern of recruiting English players from the Premier League. Kieran Trippier secured the 2020–21 La Liga championship in Madrid while fellow Englishman Conor Gallagher presently plays at the Metropolitano.
Atlético have traditionally been renowned for their defensive strength under Simeone and currently maintain Spain's finest defensive statistics this season. Nevertheless, their defensive lineup isn't beyond improvement.
Both veteran José María Giménez and 29-year-old Robin Le Normand are constantly plagued by fitness issues—the duo have missed a total of 41 games since last season's beginning.
Dávid Hancko provides dependable coverage centrally or at fullback while Clément Lenglet contributes when needed. Guéhi would bring a natural right-footed alternative to balance that predominantly left-sided partnership.
While there could be room for Guéhi in the squad, Atlético will probably encounter fierce competition from nearby rivals.
Guehi Suits Real Madrid Approach
The connection between Guéhi and Real Madrid has intensified following reports that the Spanish powerhouse has lost interest in Liverpool's Ibrahima Konaté.
Similar to Guéhi, the French centre-back faces contract expiration this summer, which initially drew Madrid's attention. As BBC Sport highlights, the Madrid club has consistently targeted free transfer opportunities.
The coverage emphasizes Madrid's pursuit of Guéhi, who represents a potential "steadying influence" in a defense that may experience significant changes this summer. The injury-susceptible pair of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba both see their contracts expire in June and could potentially face quiet departures.
Dean Huijsen joined for a club-record transfer fee last summer and has shown promise alongside Éder Militão during this campaign, though the lack of depth beyond this pairing has become apparent recently. Guéhi would undoubtedly represent an appealing addition to strengthen that defensive area.