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Chelsea Targeting Centre-Back Reinforcement in January
Chelsea Eyeing a Move for Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace
Chelsea are reportedly considering re-signing former defender Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, after seeing him flourish since leaving Stamford Bridge in 2021. The 24-year-old has established himself as one of the Premier League’s top centre-backs and played a starring role for England at Euro 2024.
Marc Guehi’s Rise at Crystal Palace
Guehi joined Crystal Palace for £18m after an 18-month loan spell at Swansea City. His performances have earned him recognition as one of the league’s finest defenders, which is why Chelsea is now considering a move to bring him back to London.
Chelsea’s Defensive Woes and Interest in Guehi
Chelsea’s interest in Guehi comes after another injury setback for Wesley Fofana, who has made only 32 appearances since his £75m transfer in 2022. With the club aiming to bolster their defence this month, Guehi has become a top target for Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who is described as a “huge fan” of the defender.
Crystal Palace are aware of Chelsea’s interest and are keen to keep Guehi, with the club hoping to secure a contract extension beyond 2026, the current end of his deal.
Crystal Palace’s £70m Price Tag and Potential Deal Complications
Last summer, Crystal Palace set an asking price of £70m for Guehi, with Newcastle United having multiple bids rejected. However, with only one year remaining on his contract next season, it remains to be seen if Palace can command that price again. Chelsea may offer Trevoh Chalobah, currently on loan at Palace, as part of the deal, though Palace reportedly prefers a cash transaction.
There are also complications regarding the sell-on clause Chelsea holds for Guehi. It is unclear how this would affect the deal if Chelsea were the purchasing club. Additionally, Guehi’s potential £170,000-per-week salary could create issues for Chelsea’s current wage structure, which has undergone significant changes in recent seasons.
Chalobah’s Potential Return to Chelsea
In the midst of their search for a centre-back, Chelsea are also considering recalling Trevoh Chalobah from his loan at Crystal Palace. The 25-year-old made 80 appearances for Chelsea in his first-team role over two and a half seasons, but his prospects at Stamford Bridge took a hit last summer when he was frozen out of the squad. A return for Chalobah would be a major U-turn for the club.
