Barcelona’s plans for next season are slowly taking shape and one area that continues to cause uncertainty is the heart of defence. According to a recent report from SPORT, the club’s sporting di...
Barcelona’s plans for next season are slowly taking shape and one area that continues to cause uncertainty is the heart of defence.
According to a recent report from SPORT, the club’s sporting director, Deco, has already identified his preferred option to strengthen the back line in the summer.
That name is Marc Guehi, with the added attraction being that the defender could arrive on a free transfer.
The situation at Barcelona is far from clear-cut. Defensive planning for the 2026–27 season remains unsettled, largely due to doubts surrounding current options.
Andreas Christensen continues to face questions over both his fitness and long-term future at the club, while the situation of Ronald Araujo remains unpredictable amid constant speculation.
If circumstances take a negative turn, Barcelona could find themselves forced into the market for more than one centre-back.
Amid this, Deco is not short of alternatives. The club have tracked Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund among other defenders.
Yet, among all the names under consideration, Guehi stands out as Deco’s top choice.
Guehi – The chosen one
Barcelona have made Marc Guehi their prime target. (Photo by Ed Sykes/Getty Images)
From Barcelona’s perspective, the appeal is obvious. Guehi’s contract with Crystal Palace expires at the end of the season, and with no renewal agreed, the defender would be free to join without a transfer fee.
However, the challenge lies in the level of competition, as Guehi’s situation has not gone unnoticed across Europe.
Liverpool were close to signing him last season and are expected to return with interest.
Bayern Munich have also made enquiries, while Real Madrid and Manchester City are closely monitoring developments.
The timeline could move quickly. From January 1, Guehi will be free to negotiate with any club, opening the door to early talks.
Despite this, Crystal Palace are firm in their stance that the defender will not leave during the winter window. Any departure, if it happens, is expected to come in the summer.
Category: General Sports
