Chelsea want key target to FORCE transfer after 'internal talks'

Cameron Smith

Updated: 13 Jan 2025 12:28 GMT
4 min read

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea, 2024/25 — © IMAGO

Chelsea are reportedly eager for Marc Guehi to convince Crystal Palace to sell him before the end of the January transfer window.

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The former Blues academy prospect has been heavily linked with a return to Stamford Bridge following Wesley Fofana’s latest injury setback, although Palace are expected to demand a huge transfer fee in order to part ways with their captain.

Newcastle United were told they would need to pay around €90 million to land Guehi last summer and it’s unlikely that his price tag will have reduced significantly in the space of six months, despite the fact his contract is set to expire in 2026.

Chelsea held “internal talks” regarding a move for Guehi over the weekend, according to Simon Phillips, who has also revealed that Enzo Maresca’s side are keen for Guehi to persuade Crystal Palace to sell him this month.

Axel Disasi could reportedly be offloaded to fund a move for Guehi, with the France defender expected to leave Chelsea before the end of 2025.

Recalling Trevoh Chalobah from his loan spell at Selhurst Park is also an option being considered by the Chelsea hierarchy, although it remains to be seen if he would accept a return to the club after being forced out in the summer.

© IMAGO - Chelsea want to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi

Renato Veiga to leave Chelsea?

Chelsea’s interest in Guehi comes amid reports that Renato Veiga has agreed to join Borussia Dortmund due to his desire to play as a centre-back.

The 21-year-old has featured most prominently at left-back since arriving at Chelsea, but he is keen to play as a central defender as he looks to establish himself as Ruben Dias’ first-choice partner for Portugal ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

When asked about Veiga’s future during his pre-match press conference before Chelsea’s clash against Bournemouth, Maresca told reporters: “At the moment, I am not aware that there is an agreement for Renato.

STATS

Renato Veiga

D (CL), M (C)

Chelsea

Renato Veiga

D (CL), M (C)

Chelsea

20

Games
2

Goals
1

Assists

“Yesterday he was here working with us and today he will be here. At the moment, he is our player.

“The only thing I can say is that we bought Renato from Basel, he has played in different positions and has played well. This has allowed him to be in the senior national team for the first time in his life.”

Maresca added: “I had a chat with Renato. I told him the same thing I told you; in terms of playing in the position he is playing with us, it gave him the chance to play for the national team and it caused speculation around him, meaning clubs are looking at him because he is doing well.

“If there is a player that just wants to play in one position, then they are going to struggle. It is a good thing for the team and for the club.”