Crystal Palace could be facing a major call when the January transfer window opens, with reports in Spain claiming Real Madrid are preparing a formal bid for one of their most important players.
Palace pushing for European football again
Oliver Glasner’s impact at Selhurst Park has been transformative. After guiding the club to their first-ever FA Cup triumph last season—and securing Europa Conference League qualification—he now has the Eagles firmly in the hunt for even bigger prizes.
Palace sit fourth in the Premier League following a 2-1 victory at Fulham, a result that lifted them into the Champions League positions. Adam Wharton impressed once more, delivering the assist for Eddie Nketiah’s opener, and the young midfielder continues to draw interest from major clubs including Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United.
Real Madrid have also been linked with Wharton in the past, but the Spanish giants are now turning their attention to another Palace standout. According to reports in Spain, Madrid are readying a €40m (£35m) offer for club captain Marc Guehi.
Madrid eye Guehi as defensive reinforcement
With Éder Militão expected to miss up to four months, Real Madrid are searching for a reliable centre-back in January, and Guehi has emerged as their preferred target. The defender has already informed Glasner he intends to leave in 2026, leaving Palace in a difficult position as they risk losing him for free in the future.
A huge call for Palace—risk or reward?
Allowing Guehi to depart next month would be a huge gamble for a Palace side currently thriving in the league. The England international has been the team’s most dependable performer, posting a 7.40 average SofaScore rating—higher than anyone else in the squad.
The 25-year-old has excelled defensively, averaging 2.03 tackles per 90 minutes (placing him in the 87th percentile among centre-backs), while also contributing in attack with two goals and three assists so far this season.
With Palace on the brink of another historic campaign, accepting Madrid’s bid could derail their Champions League push. Even with the risk of losing him in the summer, it would be wise for the club to keep hold of their captain until the season is complete.