Atletico Madrid Join the Race for Marc Guehi as Transfer Battle Intensifies

Atletico Madrid have officially entered the increasingly crowded race to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, with reports in Spain suggesting Diego Simeone’s side are “very attentive” to the defender’s situation and have already made contact with his representatives.

Guehi’s future has been a talking point for months. A dramatic Deadline Day move to Liverpool in the summer fell apart when Palace failed to secure a replacement in time. While the Reds remain the only club pushing seriously for a January deal, they are far from the only elite side preparing to battle for his signature next summer.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner has already confirmed that Guehi has no intention of extending his current contract, which expires on June 30, 2026. That stance has triggered a stampede of interest across Europe, with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and now Atletico Madrid all circling.

Atletico Madrid’s Defensive Reinforcement Plan

Under Simeone, Atletico have built a reputation as one of Europe’s fiercest defensive units, and this season they again boast the best defensive record in LaLiga. Yet, their backline remains far from secure.

Long-serving centre-back Jose Maria Gimenez and partner Robin Le Normand have struggled badly with injuries between them missing 41 matches since the start of last season. While David Hancko and Clement Lenglet continue to contribute, Simeone lacks a top-level, right-footed central defender capable of commanding the backline.

Guehi fits that profile perfectly.

Atlético’s history with English players is another factor. Kieran Trippier shone in Madrid and won the 2020/21 LaLiga title, while Conor Gallagher currently plies his trade at the Metropolitano. The club sees Guehi as the next Premier League import who can thrive under Simeone’s rugged, tactically disciplined system.

Real Madrid Also in the Hunt

Real Madrid’s interest in Guehi has strengthened in recent weeks. As reports in Spain emphasise, Los Blancos have stepped away from pursuing Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate, whose contract is also nearing expiry.

With Madrid embracing a strategy of signing elite free agents, Guehi’s 2026 contract expiry makes him an ideal target. The Spanish giants are preparing for major defensive changes this summer, with Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba both entering the twilight of their Madrid careers and facing uncertain futures due to age and injuries.

Meanwhile, young defender Dean Huijsen signed for a record fee has impressed alongside Eder Militao, but the squad lacks depth. Guehi is viewed internally as a “stabilising presence” who can bring athleticism, consistency and leadership to an evolving backline.

A Decision Awaits

With interest from England, Spain, Germany and Italy, Marc Guehi will have no shortage of elite options when the transfer window reopens. Palace, meanwhile, may be forced to sell next summer to avoid losing him for a cut-price fee in 2026.

One thing is clear: the battle for the England international is only just beginning and Atletico Madrid’s arrival has added yet another heavyweight contender to one of next summer’s most compelling transfer sagas.