Chelsea are emerging as favorites to secure the return of Marc Guehi, the Crystal Palace captain, as the summer transfer window approaches. Despite having sold him for just £18 million four years ago, the Blues are now ready to pay significantly more to bring him back.
Guehi’s standout performances at Euro 2024 have drawn strong interest across the Premier League. While Newcastle had four offers turned down last summer—topping out at £65 million—Palace continue to hold out for a £70 million fee. Tottenham matched that figure in January, but the late timing prevented Palace from finding a replacement.
Chelsea, however, are prepared to sweeten the deal by offering £50 million plus defender Trevoh Chalobah, who had a solid loan spell at Palace before being recalled. Chalobah is valued at around £30 million, making the proposed package highly appealing.
With Liverpool cooling their interest after deciding to extend Virgil van Dijk’s contract, Chelsea now lead the race for Guehi’s signature.
Palace’s recent defensive struggles, including a 5-2 loss to Manchester City in Guehi’s absence, underscore the void his departure will leave. Manager Oliver Glasner pointed to broader issues with form and fitness but acknowledged the team’s defensive missteps.
As Palace brace for their captain’s likely exit, Chelsea are moving decisively to finalize a deal ahead of rival suitors.