Newcastle now ready to submit £40m transfer fee for Premier League rival star after multiple rejection

Newcastle United have rekindled their interest in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, preparing a £40 million bid for the England international as Eddie Howe seeks to bolster his defensive options.

The Magpies’ renewed pursuit comes nearly twelve months after their initial £60 million approach was rebuffed, with Palace’s FA Cup triumph last season having strengthened their negotiating position.

However, with Guehi now entering the final year of his contract, the dynamics of this transfer saga have shifted significantly.

The 25-year-old center-back has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders since his £18 million move from Chelsea in 2021.

His leadership during Palace’s historic FA Cup victory cemented his reputation, making him an attractive proposition for several top clubs. Newcastle view Guehi as the ideal candidate to shore up their backline, though their valuation falls £10 million short of Palace’s current £50 million asking price.

This strategic lowball offer reflects Newcastle’s awareness of Guehi’s contractual situation and the player’s reported willingness to see out his deal at Selhurst Park.

Liverpool’s parallel interest adds complexity to the negotiations, though the reigning champions share Newcastle’s reluctance to meet Palace’s valuation.

Tottenham’s lurking presence, alongside European heavyweights Barcelona and Bayern Munich monitoring Guehi’s situation, creates a crowded field of suitors all waiting to pounce should Palace soften their stance.

Newcastle’s hierarchy believes patience could prove advantageous, with the possibility of securing Guehi for a reduced fee as the transfer window progresses becoming increasingly plausible.

For Crystal Palace, this presents a familiar dilemma. Holding firm last summer yielded silverware but risks losing their defensive linchpin for nothing in 2025.

Former Palace owner Simon Jordan articulated this predicament succinctly: “Sell him! Unless you can tie him down – and you’re not going to tie him down, are you?”

His blunt assessment underscores the financial pragmatism that may ultimately dictate Guehi’s future, especially considering Palace’s need to reinvest in their squad.

Should Newcastle succeed in their pursuit, Guehi would represent a much-needed coup in what has been a frustrating transfer window.

The Magpies have seen multiple targets – including Bryan Mbeumo, João Pedro, and Hugo Ekitike – opt for rival clubs, with only Anthony Elanga’s £55 million arrival and Aaron Ramsdale’s loan move materializing thus far.

Securing Guehi’s signature would not only address defensive frailties but also send a statement of intent as Newcastle look to build on last season’s Champions League qualification.

The potential acquisition takes on added significance given the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future.

While Newcastle rejected Liverpool’s £110 million bid for their Swedish striker, the possibility of reinvesting such funds could transform their transfer strategy.

Guehi’s arrival would provide defensive stability regardless of whether Isak stays or departs, offering Howe the foundation to implement his preferred tactical approach with greater consistency.

As the summer window enters its decisive phase, this transfer tussle encapsulates modern football’s complex power dynamics – a balancing act between player ambition, club finances, and negotiating brinkmanship.

For Newcastle, the Guehi chase represents more than just a defensive reinforcement; it’s a test of their ability to outmaneuver wealthier rivals in the Premier League’s cutthroat transfer market.

The coming weeks will reveal whether their calculated approach pays dividends or if they’re forced to turn to alternative targets once again.