Manchester United Have Joined the Race to Sign £65m Premier League Defender – Report | OneFootball

Man Utd Target Marc Guehi as Inter Milan Enter the Frame: A Transfer Tug-of-War Intensifies

Manchester United have made their intentions clear with an enquiry for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, but their pursuit is far from straightforward. According to TEAMtalk, the England international is attracting widespread interest, with Champions League finalists Inter Milan showing “the most concrete interest” yet.

The 24-year-old centre-back, who led Crystal Palace to a historic FA Cup triumph, has grown into one of the most dependable defenders in the Premier League. Despite Palace rebuffing Newcastle United’s bids of up to £65 million with add-ons, it’s looking increasingly likely that Guehi will depart Selhurst Park before the 2025/26 season.

Guehi’s Stock on the Rise

Guehi’s performances have rightly caught the eye. Comfortable on the ball, calm under pressure, and with leadership qualities rarely found at his age, it’s no wonder he’s being monitored by some of Europe’s elite. Crystal Palace may want to cash in rather than lose him on a free when his deal expires in 2026.

Photo: IMAGO

TEAMtalk reports that Guehi has drawn attention from Barcelona and Real Madrid, with the player rumoured to be open to running down his contract to secure a dream move. However, it appears he might not have to wait that long, especially if the interest from Inter Milan materialises into a formal bid.

United’s interest, meanwhile, suggests a serious attempt to resolve their defensive frailties – a priority that’s become urgent despite previous investments in Matthijs De Ligt, Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu.

Defensive Woes Still Haunt United

Despite these recent signings, Manchester United sit in a deeply concerning 16th place in the Premier League. TEAMtalk rightly state that “despite spending hundreds of millions in recent years, Man Utd are still in dire straits.”

The backline continues to leak goals and looks far from the solid foundation required to compete at the top level. Guehi, with Premier League experience and leadership credentials, could offer something this disjointed defence sorely lacks.

Interestingly, TEAMtalk also highlight that “Ruben Amorim’s attack is, arguably, the greatest cause for concern,” yet the club is still prioritising a centre-back. This underlines just how significant Guehi’s potential arrival could be for a rebuild that is proving more complex than anticipated.

Photo IMAGO

Inter Milan Complicates Matters

Inter Milan’s involvement may prove to be a major stumbling block. With Yann Bisseck reportedly available for sale, they are in the market for a centre-back and see Guehi as a suitable successor. Inter can offer Champions League football, which may tip the balance if United fail to win the Europa League final this week.

As TEAMtalk notes, “if United win the Europa League final on Wednesday… that may help in their pursuit of Guehi. If not, others may swoop in.” That’s the knife edge on which United’s recruitment strategy now rests.

Competition is Heating Up

Newcastle’s persistent interest, along with Chelsea’s past considerations and Inter’s current momentum, means this is no open road for United. While Chelsea have shifted focus to Jorrel Hato, they remain a wildcard. Inter’s added interest only intensifies the situation.

Photo IMAGO

TEAMtalk also confirm that Inter are monitoring Genoa’s Koni De Winter, but Guehi seems to be their preferred target. This likely ensures a competitive market and potentially another transfer saga involving Old Trafford.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United supporter’s perspective, the move for Marc Guehi is a promising sign that the club are beginning to target the right profiles. Under Ruben Amorim, there’s been a slow but distinct shift towards players with composure, adaptability and leadership – Guehi ticks all those boxes.

This is not just about shoring up a porous defence. It’s about re-establishing a winning mentality. Guehi captained Palace to FA Cup glory and has consistently performed at a high level. His Premier League experience would eliminate the adaptation period many foreign imports face, which is exactly what United need in this transition period.

Given that United’s league form has been underwhelming, winning the Europa League feels like a make-or-break moment – both for this season and their recruitment strategy. If Champions League football can be secured, the appeal of Old Trafford grows significantly.

There’s always the concern that United might get outmanoeuvred by Inter, especially considering their stability and continental status. But if Amorim is backed and Guehi sees himself as a future leader in a new era at United, this deal could be pivotal.