Crystal Palace Anticipates Marc Guehi Departure, Pursues Ake, Konsa Replacements

Crystal Palace is facing significant challenges in retaining key players, notably captain Marc Guehi, whose contract expires at the end of the 2025/26 season. Despite a near £35 million move to Liverpool in the summer, the transfer was halted by Palace's insistence on securing a replacement, with the club now open to a reduced £25 million January sale to avoid losing Guehi for free. Liverpool, however, has no plans for a mid-season bid, while other top clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich are monitoring his situation for a potential free transfer in the summer. To fill the impending void, Palace is targeting defenders such as Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa and Manchester City's Nathan Ake, both viewed as capable replacements by manager Oliver Glasner. Meanwhile, striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, another crucial squad member nearing contract expiry in 2027, may also be sold if he refuses to extend, with the club keen to maximize his transfer value. Palace's recent successes, including winning the FA Cup and Community Shield, underscore the importance of retaining talent to sustain their competitive progress and aim for regular European football.