Chelsea handed 'golden opportunity' to sign €90m target

Cameron Smith

Updated: 3 Jan 2025 12:49 GMT
3 min read

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea, 2024/25 — © IMAGO

Chelsea are reportedly the frontrunners in the race to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi as Enzo Maresca eyes defensive reinforcements in 2025.

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Guehi spent 14 years at Chelsea before moving to Selhurst Park on a permanent deal in 2021, but he could be set to seal a big-money return to west London amid reports that several clubs are unable to fund a move for the England international.

Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle United are all interested in signing Guehi this year, but they don’t have the funds to spend big during the January transfer window, according to GiveMeSport.

As a result, Chelsea have been handed a “golden opportunity” to sign Guehi this month, and the Blues can reportedly now be considered in pole position to land the 24-year-old.

Crystal Palace set a hefty price tag of €90 million for the England star last summer and it’s believed that Chelsea will test their resolve in January as they look to secure Guehi’s signature amid significant competition.

Do Chelsea need Marc Guehi?

Tosin Adarabioyo arrived at Stamford Bridge on a free transfer from Fulham in July, while Aaron Anselmino has returned to Chelsea following a loan spell back at boyhood club Boca Juniors.

However, Axel Disasi is widely expected to leave the Blues in 2025, following his struggles so far this season, and Benoit Badiashile could also depart the club amid interest from multiple clubs across Europe.

As a result, Chelsea are eager to sign a new centre-back this year, with Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi and Benfica’s Tomas Araujo alongside Guehi on their transfer wish-list.

In regards to outgoings, Ben Chilwell, Carney Chukwuemeka and Cesare Casadei are all expected to leave Chelsea during the January transfer window, while Christopher Nkunku and summer signing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall have also been linked with the exit door.