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

The battle between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona to strengthen their defense has a name and surname: Marc Guéhi.

The English center-back from Crystal Palace has become one of the main figures in the market, not because he will change teams now, but because his contractual situation opens the door to a signing that could be resolved without spending a single euro on a transfer fee.

The 25-year-old English center-back, a regular in the Premier League and with a presence in the English national team, is out of contract in June 2026. This means that starting from January 1 of that same year, he can negotiate directly with any club and commit to the following season. A circumstance that makes his name one of the most coveted in the market.

In August, he was very close to signing with Liverpool. The discussions were advanced, and the transfer seemed done, but Crystal Palace blocked his departure at the last moment, as they couldn't find a reliable replacement. The London club knew they risked losing their captain in the near future but prioritized maintaining stability in the team.

A signing that tempts Madrid and Barça.

With the transfer window closed and no real options to negotiate for him at this moment, attention is now focused on what may happen in the coming months. Both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona watch the case closely, aware that in January they will have the opportunity to sit down and talk directly with the player. This negotiation window, without a transfer cost, presents an opportunity that is hard to pass up.

The white club seeks to continue rejuvenating its defense after the departure of veteran figures and sees in Guéhi a profile that would fit due to his solidity, speed, and experience in high-level competitions. At Camp Nou, meanwhile, the economic situation requires a careful look at cost-free opportunities, and the Palace center-back meets all the requirements: ideal age, experience in the Premier League, and room for growth.

Other top clubs in Europe may join this battle, but in Spain, there's talk of a direct showdown between the two giants. The chance to strengthen with a top-level defender without paying a transfer fee is a very attractive proposition not to be missed.

Crystal Palace, on the other hand, finds itself in a bind. Marc Guéhi has decided not to renew, and with the countdown underway, everything points to 2025-26 being his final season at Selhurst Park. Coach Oliver Glasner already knows he'll have to deal with uncertainty, aware that his defensive leader could leave at the end of the season without bringing in any income for the club.

So, Guéhi's future seems decided: he'll finish the season in England and, starting from January, will entertain offers from the top clubs. Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are already planning their strategy to convince him.

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