England international Marc Guehi has officially informed Crystal Palace that he will not renew his contract, manager Oliver Glasner confirmed on Saturday. The 25-year-old defender, who played a pivotal role in Palace’s FA Cup triumph last season, is now expected to depart Selhurst Park either in the January transfer window or at the end of the current Premier League campaign.
Guehi Rejects New Crystal Palace Deal
Guehi’s current contract runs until June 2026, but Glasner revealed the centre-back has decided to seek a “different challenge.” Palace were keen to secure his long-term future and reportedly tabled a lucrative new offer — but the England star turned it down.
“The club wanted him to stay. They offered Marc a new contract but he said, ‘No, I want to make something different,’ and that’s normal,” Glasner told reporters. “Now we have to decide how we deal with this situation and find the best solution together.”
The Austrian coach emphasized that discussions remain open, but admitted Guehi’s decision means Palace must prepare for his eventual exit.
Liverpool, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich Among Interested Clubs
The news reignites transfer speculation surrounding the highly rated centre-back. Guehi was close to joining Liverpool on transfer deadline day last month, but Palace pulled out of the deal late, unwilling to lose their captain without a replacement lined up.
Now, several European giants — including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich — are reportedly monitoring his situation closely.
With his contract set to enter its final six months, Guehi will be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract with foreign clubs from January 1, 2026. Palace, meanwhile, could choose to sell him in January to avoid losing him on a free transfer next summer.
Guehi’s Crystal Palace Legacy
Since joining Crystal Palace from Chelsea in 2021, Guehi has become one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders. He has made 167 appearances for the Eagles, contributing leadership, composure, and defensive solidity.
His standout performances earned him the captain’s armband and a place in England’s national team, where he has now collected 26 international caps under Gareth Southgate.
Last season, Guehi captained Palace to a memorable FA Cup victory, marking the club’s first major trophy in decades and cementing his place in the club’s modern history.
Palace Face a Tough Decision Ahead of January
Crystal Palace, who sit sixth in the Premier League after an impressive start to the 2025–26 season, now face a crucial choice: sell their star defender in January or risk losing him for free in the summer.
Glasner’s side will hope to maintain focus amid growing transfer speculation as they prepare to host Bournemouth at Selhurst Park.
Regardless of when he departs, Guehi’s impact on Crystal Palace is undeniable — a leader on and off the pitch who helped transform the club’s defensive stability and competitive edge in the Premier League.
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