Real Madrid are reportedly preparing for a January move for Marc Gehi as speculation intensifies over the Crystal Palace defender’s future.
The England international is in the final months of his contract at Selhurst Park and talks over a new contract are currently off the table, with several of Europe’s biggest teams circling the table.
Gehi’s situation has become one of the hottest transfer deals heading into the winter season, with clubs hoping to capitalize on the uncertainty surrounding his next move.
The centre-back has been a key figure at Crystal Palace since joining from Chelsea in 2021, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent and clinical defenders.
Marc Guehi is expected to leave Crystal Palace in 2026
But his time in south London appears to be coming to an end. Last week, manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that Gehi would not sign a new contract, paving the way for him to leave as a free agent in January or next summer.
The development has alarmed several top clubs across Europe. Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are all monitoring the situation closely, while Premier League rivals Liverpool made a belated attempt to sign him during the summer transfer window.
Real Madrid are now reportedly in the race and could be looking to move quickly to secure his contract before the end of the season.
According to Spanish outlet Real Madrid Confidential, the La Liga giants are willing to offer around £30 million to bring Gehi to the Bernabéu in January.
Real Madrid interested in signing England international
The defender will be available for free at the end of the season, but Madrid believe they have the opportunity to acquire a long-term defensive asset at a discount before competition increases.
The Spanish giants are keen to strengthen their backline amid ongoing concerns over injuries and squad depth, and Gehi’s age, versatility and Premier League experience make him an ideal target.
It may make financial sense for Palace to sell in January. Rather than risk losing a valuable player for free in the summer, they could recoup a hefty salary midway through the season while still having time to find a replacement.
However, what kind of deal is agreed will depend on whether Palace’s evaluation is met and whether Gehi is willing to move mid-season.
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