Just days into the January transfer window, and Arsenal are at the centre of one of the most intriguing Premier League transfer sagas.
Reports suggest Arsenal have entered the race to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, joining heavyweights like Manchester City in the chase for the England international.
The 25-year-old’s contract at Selhurst Park is set to expire at the end of the season, meaning he can negotiate a free transfer for the summer.
That has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe. But Palace, keen not to lose their captain for nothing in six months, may be willing to accept a January offer rather than see him walk away for free.
Although Manchester City are widely seen as the frontrunners – especially given their defensive injury crisis – Arsenal’s renewed interest adds a spicy twist to the story.
According to reports, City remain most eager to do a deal this month, but the Gunners are now actively monitoring the situation, keeping tabs on Guehi’s future while weighing up whether to push for a move now or wait until summer.
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Palace’s pickle: sell now or lose for free later
Crystal Palace’s stance is a tricky one.
Manager Oliver Glasner has publicly suggested the defender could stay through the remainder of the season, with Guehi’s own preference leaning toward finishing the campaign at Selhurst Park before departing, according to Glasner.
That sentiment complicates any immediate transfer push, particularly if Palace do not receive an offer that matches their valuation in January.
But as the window progresses, the economics could swing in favour of a sale.
Palace risk losing a key defensive leader for zero in the summer, a scenario clubs are desperate to avoid.
If Arsenal or City are willing to meet Palace’s demands, the club may decide that getting value now outweighs the gamble of a free departure six months down the line.
For Arsenal, potential interest in Guehi fits into a broader narrative: strengthening defensive depth while balancing squad continuity.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are still interested in getting the 25-year-old’s signature, as are Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, adding an extra layer to an already interesting transfer saga.
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