Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a January swoop for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, as speculation over his future continues to mount.

The England international has been a central figure in recent transfer talk after Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed last week that Guehi would not be signing a new contract with the club. His current deal expires next summer, meaning the Eagles face losing him for free if they don’t sell in the upcoming window.

That possibility has alerted several top European clubs. Liverpool came close to landing the 25-year-old on deadline day in the summer, while Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain have all been credited with interest. Now, Real Madrid have joined the chase — and could be ready to act first.

According to Real Madrid Confidencial, the La Liga giants are weighing up a £30 million offer in January to secure Guehi’s signature ahead of rival suitors. With the defender’s contract running down, Madrid view the deal as excellent value for a player entering his prime and boasting Premier League and international experience.

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are already exploring replacements should Guehi depart mid-season. Reports suggest the club is keeping tabs on Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell, as well as Inter’s Yann Bisseck — though his valuation remains a sticking point — and Lazio’s Mario Gila, who is also attracting strong interest from Tottenham Hotspur.

As Guehi’s exit looms closer, Palace’s January dealings could prove decisive in shaping their defensive future.