Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are fighting for a key signing at no cost

Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are once again battling it out in the transfer market.

Both clubs are closely monitoring Marc Guéhi, a 25-year-old center-back from Crystal Palace, who has decided not to renew his contract with the English club.

Their coach, Oliver Glasner, confirmed that Guéhi will not extend his contract, which ends in June 2026. Starting from January, the player will be free to negotiate with any team, sparking the interest of the two giants of Spanish football.

Real Madrid seeks to secure its future defense

Real Madrid sees Marc Guéhi as a great market opportunity. The white team plans to strengthen its defense for the upcoming seasons, as players like David Alaba or Antonio Rüdiger are nearing the end of their time at the club.

The English defender stands out for his solidity, leadership, and experience in the Premier League, despite his youth. Furthermore, his contractual situation allows for a smart move without the need to pay a large sum, aligning with the transfer policy of the white team.

Florentino Pérez and the sports management consider Marc Guéhi a reinforcement that would bring balance and reliability to the defense. The Bernabéu values his international experience with England and his good ball distribution, qualities highly sought after in the current style of the team.

FC Barcelona also aims to close the signing

FC Barcelona also has its eyes set on Marc Guéhi. The Barcelona sports management is looking for a young center-back with potential who can compete at the highest level. His arrival at no cost makes him a very attractive option for a club that is still adjusting economically.

At Camp Nou, the Englishman is seen as a possible medium-term substitute for players like Andreas Christensen. His physical profile and anticipation skills fit in with the style of play that the Hansi Flick team wants to maintain.

Barça's idea is to get ahead of Real Madrid and present a convincing sports project to persuade the player. Additionally, the club believes that his signing would strengthen internal competition in the defensive line.

Crystal Palace loses its star

In England, Crystal Palace already accepts that they will lose their captain, although they will try to profit before he can leave for free. If any club wants to secure him before the summer of 2026, they will have to negotiate a transfer in January.

Oliver Glasner regretted his decision but assured that the club will respect his will. “Marc has been an example on and off the field. If he decides to try a new challenge, we will support him,” said the coach in a press conference.

The interest from Real Madrid and FC Barcelona only adds more tension to the market. Both teams know that Guéhi combines youth, experience, and maturity, a mix that is hard to find nowadays.

With his contract ending in 2026, Marc Guéhi has become one of the most sought-after names in European football. The battle between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona promises to be intense, and his final decision could mark the next major move in the transfer market.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Real Madrid y FC Barcelona se pelean por un fichaje clave a coste cero