No going back’: Newcastle genuinely submit £40M final offer England international summer
The corridors of power at St James’ Park are buzzing with renewed optimism as Newcastle United prepare a fresh approach for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.
After failing with substantial bids last summer – including offers reaching £70 million – the Magpies now believe they can secure their long-term defensive target for a significantly reduced £40 million fee.
This potential bargain acquisition could solve multiple problems for Eddie Howe’s side as they prepare for their Champions League return.
At 24 years old with 12 England caps and European Championship experience, Guehi represents the perfect blend of youth and elite-level pedigree that Newcastle crave.
His leadership qualities and ball-playing ability would immediately upgrade a backline that, while effective last season, relies heavily on veterans like 33-year-old Fabian Schär and converted full-back Dan Burn.
The Swiss international’s contract situation – with just one year remaining – adds urgency to Newcastle’s search for a top-class center-half who can grow with the project.
Guehi’s potential availability stems from his contract status at Selhurst Park, with just twelve mionths remaining on his current deal. While Palace’s FA Cup triumph and subsequent Europa League qualification strengthens their negotiating position, Newcastle’s recruitment team senses an opportunity to capitalize on the defender’s uncertain future.
The reduced asking price – almost £30 million less than last summer’s rejected bids – reflects both the contract situation and Newcastle’s more measured approach to Financial Fair Play compliance after their previous European campaign exposed squad depth issues.
The Magpies learned harsh lessons during their last Champions League adventure, when an injury crisis forced Eddie Howe to field academy products against European giants.
Guehi’s potential arrival would provide much-needed quality and durability to a defense that must cope with the dual demands of Premier League and elite European competition.
His homegrown status offers additional value, helping Newcastle meet UEFA squad registration rules while maintaining their core British identity.
Some supporters have suggested including Joe Willock as part of the deal after reports linked the midfielder with Palace interest.
However, Newcastle appear focused on a straight cash transaction, believing Guehi’s contract situation gives them leverage.
The defender’s decision may hinge on whether he views Palace’s Europa League campaign as sufficient for his development or craves the Champions League stage Newcastle can provide.
While alternatives like Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah have been considered – with Bayer Leverkusen reportedly leading that race – Guehi remains Newcastle’s preferred target.
His experience in major tournaments, including England’s run to the 2024 European Championship final, demonstrates the big-game mentality Howe wants to instill in his squad.
For £40 million in today’s inflated market, acquiring a proven Premier League defender with international pedigree would represent exceptional business.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Palace dig in their heels or reluctantly negotiate, but Newcastle’s confidence suggests this could be the summer they finally land their man.
Securing Guehi’s signature would send a clear message about their ambitions – no longer content with makeshift solutions, the Magpies are building a defense capable of competing at Europe’s highest level for years to come.
With preseason preparations looming, this potential deal could set the tone for Newcastle’s entire transfer window.