Chelsea is reportedly eyeing a reunion with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi as they navigate a defensive crisis.
Injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile have left the Blues thin at the back, with no clear return date for Fofana and Badiashile out until February. This situation has prompted speculation that Chelsea may dip into the transfer market this January, with Guehi emerging as a prime candidate.
The 24-year-old defender, who left Chelsea for Crystal Palace in 2021, has become one of the Premier League’s most reliable centre-backs. Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s manager, reportedly holds Guehi in high regard. According to reports from the Daily Mail, Maresca is a “huge fan” of the England international’s abilities, which makes the potential signing a move that aligns with the manager’s vision for the club.
Guehi’s impressive performance in Crystal Palace’s recent 1-1 draw against Chelsea has only added fuel to the speculation. The defender showcased his defensive prowess, playing the full 90 minutes and making three clearances, two tackles, and one interception. His leadership on the pitch was evident as he captained the Eagles during the London derby, further demonstrating the qualities that could make him an asset for Chelsea’s struggling backline.
Statistically, Guehi’s contributions in that match were noteworthy. He successfully competed in all his aerial and ground duels, highlighting his strength in one-on-one situations. In a game where Chelsea’s attack showed flashes of quality, Guehi’s composure and positioning were key in limiting the visitors to just one goal.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
Chelsea’s interest in Guehi isn’t without precedent. The defender has grown into a Premier League leader since his departure, and his development at Palace has made him a highly sought-after talent. However, re-signing him won’t come cheap. Palace reportedly valued Guehi at £70m last summer, and with the January window notoriously difficult for major transfers, the Eagles are unlikely to lower their demands.
While Guehi remains a top target, Chelsea has alternative options on the table. The possibility of recalling Trevoh Chalobah from his loan spell at Palace is also being considered. Despite being frozen out of Chelsea’s first-team plans last summer, Chalobah has shown promise, and a return could offer a more cost-effective solution to the club’s defensive woes.
Still, Guehi represents a proven, Premier League-ready option who understands the demands of playing for a top-six club. His experience in high-pressure matches and ability to lead a defensive line make him a compelling choice for Chelsea as they aim to stabilize their season.
For Maresca, Guehi’s potential return isn’t just about plugging gaps; it’s about building a defense capable of competing at the highest level. The manager has been vocal about the need for reinforcements, and Guehi’s profile fits the mold of a modern centre-back who can contribute both defensively and in building play from the back.
Crystal Palace Intentions for Marc Guehi
Crystal Palace, however, holds the upper hand in negotiations. Losing their captain mid-season would be a significant blow, and the club is unlikely to entertain any offers below their valuation. For Guehi, the decision to return to Chelsea would also hinge on assurances about his role in the squad, especially given the club’s recent history of rotating centre-backs.
If Chelsea secures Guehi’s signature, it would mark a significant statement of intent. The move would not only address their immediate defensive concerns but also bring back a player with a deep understanding of the club’s culture. For a side aiming to re-establish itself among Europe’s elite, adding Guehi could be a crucial step forward.
In the end, whether it’s Guehi or Chalobah, Chelsea’s January dealings will be pivotal. With a packed fixture schedule and defensive frailties exposed, the Blues must act decisively to bolster their ranks. Guehi, with his mix of experience, leadership, and familiarity with the club, could be the perfect addition to their plans.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Stamford Bridge to see if they can pull off what would undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about moves of the season. One thing is clear: Chelsea’s defensive rebuild is underway, and Marc Guehi could be at the heart of it.