“Chelsea Deals Newcastle a Blow as ‘Interest Increases’ in £65m Swap Deal Fa…

Chelsea’s “interest grows” in a swap deal that would suit Crystal Palace, so it may be set to sabotage Newcastle’s pursuit of center-back Marc Guehi.

Guehi is Eddie Howe’s top center-back target for the summer, and according to sources, Newcastle has had a £50 million bid rejected by Palace after it was previously reported that the transaction is in a “precarious state” due to disagreements in valuation.

The England center back at Crystal Palace is attracting a lot of interest, and from what I’ve heard, he would be open to transferring to St. James’ Park. The two teams are in talks, and Newcastle’s acquisition of England’s breakthrough Euros player would likely be their biggest since acquiring Sandro Tonali from Milan more than a year ago.

It seems as though the deal is still in a perilous position, but despite continued talks, it is understood that no sum has been agreed upon just yet. Palace’s asking price is understood to be “north of £65m.” Although neither Liverpool nor any other team has made a move for him yet, there is rival Premier League interest in him.

Interestingly, there are other defensive targets. I am aware that talks about a new center back have been held in the past week; these talks may be taking place concurrently with the Guehi talks. They are still interested in Milan’s Malick Thiaw, and although though Guehi seems like the best option, you never know who might come out as a surprise.

Express now report that Chelsea, the 24-year-old’s former team, has advanced to challenge Newcastle for his services; their “interest is growing” in the Cobham academy graduate.

This summer, the Blues have already brought in two center backs: Aaron Anselmino from Boca Juniors for £17 million and Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer from Fulham.

However, Anselmino won’t make his official debut until January 2025, and Adarabioyo’s preseason performances have been disappointing.

The Blues were lucky that they only gave up 12 goals in their five preseason games, since new manager Enzo Maresca expressed reservations about the defense.