Sources: Howe on personal mission to sign £70m “superstar” for Newcastle, he could choose them

Eddie Howe’s relentless pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi appears far from over, with Newcastle United preparing a fresh approach for the highly-coveted center-back when the summer transfer window opens.

Despite failing to secure his signature last year after four bids—the highest reaching £65 million—the Magpies remain undeterred in their quest to bring the England international to St James’ Park.

A Strategic Defensive Reinforcement

Newcastle’s determination to land Guehi stems from Howe’s long-term vision of building a defense capable of competing at the highest level. The imminent £20 million permanent departure of Lloyd Kelly to Juventus will bolster the club’s transfer budget, while Jamaal Lascelles’ contract extension ensures defensive depth.

However, with Fabian Schär aging and Sven Botman’s injury concerns lingering, Guehi represents an ideal candidate to solidify Newcastle’s backline for years to come.

The 24-year-old has been a standout performer for Crystal Palace, earning plaudits for his composure, leadership, and defensive intelligence.

His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Tottenham testing Palace’s resolve with a £70 million bid in January—an offer that was swiftly rejected. Yet, Newcastle believe they can negotiate a more favorable deal this time around, given Guehi’s contract situation.

Contract Dynamics and Negotiation Leverage

Guehi’s current deal expires in 2025, leaving Palace in a precarious position. With no extension agreed upon, the Eagles risk losing their captain for free next summer if they refuse to sell. Newcastle are banking on this scenario to drive down Palace’s asking price, particularly as the defender’s £50,000-per-week wages make him an affordable target in terms of salary structure.

Sources indicate that Palace, while reluctant to part ways with their defensive linchpin, recognize the financial prudence of cashing in now rather than risking a free transfer departure. This admission has emboldened Newcastle, who are preparing a structured offer that could include performance-based add-ons to meet Palace’s valuation without overstretching their budget.

Competition Looms from Premier League Rivals

Newcastle’s path to signing Guehi won’t be straightforward. Chelsea, the club where Guehi began his career, retain a strong interest and could leverage their pre-existing relationship to lure him back to Stamford Bridge. Liverpool, too, have monitored his progress as they seek long-term defensive reinforcements.

However, Howe’s personal involvement could prove decisive. The Newcastle boss has made Guehi a priority target, and his track record of developing young talent—coupled with the Magpies’ upward trajectory—might sway the defender’s decision. The prospect of Champions League football, should Newcastle secure a top-four finish, would further enhance their appeal.

Why Guehi Fits Howe’s Blueprint

Howe’s philosophy revolves around assembling a squad of young, dynamic players capable of growing alongside the club’s ambitions. Guehi, with his Premier League experience and leadership qualities, fits this mold perfectly. His ability to play out from the back aligns with Howe’s preference for ball-playing defenders, while his physicality and reading of the game would add steel to Newcastle’s rearguard.

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has previously hailed Guehi as a “superstar,” underscoring his importance to the South London club. Yet, with Newcastle ready to test Palace’s resolve once more, the coming months could see one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer sagas unfold.

The Bigger Picture: Newcastle’s Summer Strategy

Guehi’s potential arrival would signal a statement of intent from Newcastle as they look to build on their Carabao Cup triumph and push for consistent European qualification. The club’s recruitment team is working meticulously to ensure they avoid last summer’s frustrations, where protracted negotiations for key targets often ended in disappointment.

Securing Guehi would not only address a critical positional need but also send a message to rivals that Newcastle remain serious contenders in the transfer market. With financial fair play considerations in mind, the Magpies must strike a balance between ambition and fiscal responsibility—a challenge they are prepared to meet head-on.

Final Verdict: A Transfer Battle Worth Watching

As the summer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether Newcastle can finally land their long-term defensive target. Guehi’s future hinges on multiple factors—Palace’s willingness to negotiate, rival interest, and the player’s own ambitions. But with Howe’s persistence and Newcastle’s growing allure, this could be the transfer that defines their offseason.

One thing is certain: if Newcastle succeed, they won’t just be signing a defender—they’ll be securing a cornerstone for their future.