Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi and Jean-Philippe Mateta. (Reuters/Craig Brough)
Crystal Palace just don’t know how to stay down. Year after year, they lose their biggest names — yet somehow, they come back stronger.
In 2024, the Eagles waved goodbye to Michael Olise, who joined Bayern Munich, but went on to win both the FA Cup and Community Shield.
A year later, Eberechi Eze made the move to Arsenal, yet under Oliver Glasner, Palace remain one of the Premier League’s most entertaining sides.
Currently sitting sixth in the table and flying in the Europa Conference League, Palace continue to impress with their fearless, high-intensity football.
However, another major test could soon arrive — this time from the biggest stage of all.
Real Madrid Eye Marc Guehi
According to Fichajes, Real Madrid have identified Marc Guéhi as one of their top defensive targets ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 24-year-old Palace captain is entering the final year of his contract and, as things stand, is not expected to renew — opening the door for a potential free transfer move to the Spanish giants.
Madrid had initially been looking at other defenders, including Ibrahima Konaté, but Guéhi’s availability without a transfer fee has reportedly made him a priority target. His consistency in the Premier League and maturity as Palace’s defensive leader have not gone unnoticed in Spain.
The report adds that Guéhi could begin formal talks with overseas clubs as early as January, giving Real Madrid a clear advantage over their English rivals — including Liverpool, who came close to signing him last summer.
Praised by England head coach Thomas Tuchel as a “fantastic” defender, losing Guehi would undoubtedly sting for Palace, but given Glasner’s track record of rebuilding and keeping his side competitive, few would bet against the Eagles soaring again — even if Real Madrid come calling.
For Madrid, meanwhile, landing one of Europe’s most composed and reliable defenders on a free transfer could prove to be one of the smartest pieces of business in recent years.
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