Newcastle United are reportedly attempting to steal a march on their Premier League rivals for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.
During the early part of the summer transfer window, the Magpies had to work diligently in order to comply with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability regulations.
That goal was achieved through generating £68m from the sales of Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh, and it also allowed Eddie Howe to get a deal over the line for Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer.
However, Newcastle are still short in the middle of their backline, a consequence of two long-term injuries to Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles.
As it stands, Fabian Schar and Kelly are in line to begin the season in the two spots, with Dan Burn and Emil Krafth the alternatives.
Nevertheless, according to a report in The Athletic, Newcastle officials are making every effort to improve their options at centre-back.
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Newcastle make their move for Guehi
As per journalist David Ornstein, the North East outfit's hierarchy have opened negotiations with their Palace counterparts for Guehi.
The 24-year-old's stock had already been high before he emerged as one of England's key players at Euro 2024, starting six times for the Three Lions.
Palace would naturally like to retain the services of the former Chelsea youngster but Guehi having just two years left on his contract may dictate otherwise.
Newcastle are allegedly the first team to enter discussions that could eventually lead to a deal being finalised, putting them to the front of the queue.
A potential transfer fee is not mentioned, yet it is plausible to believe that Palace will demand in the region of £60m as has been previously claimed.
In his three seasons at Selhurst Park, Guehi has made 111 appearances in all competitions, contributing five goals and two assists.
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Will other clubs now make their move?
There is a scenario where Guehi may not be in any rush to accept terms offered by Newcastle, who have no European football on their calendar for 2024-25.
Of the other interested clubs, Liverpool are perhaps the most likely alternative given their need to add another centre-back to their ranks, while Manchester United may yet reignite their interest.
Although Real Madrid have been linked with Guehi, manager Carlo Ancelotti recently claimed that Los Blancos will not be signing any more players during the ongoing transfer window.
Darren Plant
