Barcelona has experienced a complicated summer in defense. Iñigo Martínez's departure left a gap that the club needs to fill as soon as possible. Renewing the center of the backline is an urgent matter.
Barça is looking for a center-back who can provide security, leadership, and physical presence. Defense has been a weak point in recent matches, and the sporting management is working to find the right player.
The club even showed interest in Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace; however, the player has decided to rule out Barça as an option. His priority points to another destination, leaving the blaugrana team needing to explore other alternatives. This leaves Pau Cubarsí and the team lamenting the loss of a potential key signing.
Real Madrid targets the priority
Meanwhile, in Madrid, the defense is also being renewed. Dean Huijsen's arrival has been a first step, but not the definitive one. Real Madrid is still looking for reinforcements in the center of the backline, and Marc Guehi is one of the most prominent names.
Despite interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich, the player is clear about his desire: to play at Santiago Bernabéu. For Florentino Pérez, this is excellent news. Guehi has been on the target list for several transfer windows, and now the deal seems closer than ever.
Obstacles and opportunities
This summer, the transfer didn't go through. Crystal Palace put up resistance, and although Liverpool seemed to have it closed, it ultimately didn't happen. However, the situation will change in the summer of 2026, when Guehi will be a free agent and able to negotiate with any club. This puts Real Madrid in a very advantageous position.
Bayern Munich and Liverpool remain important competitors, but they're not the player's priority. That's why the merengue club has a unique opportunity it can't miss. Acting with strategy and determination will be key.
Florentino Pérez and the final strategy
Signing Guehi won't be easy. The competition is strong, and a misstep could ruin the deal. That's why Real Madrid will have to present its best offer: attractive sporting conditions, a convincing project, and a clear vision of his role in the team.
Bringing in Guehi would immediately strengthen the merengue defense. His youth, technique, and ability to read the game fit with Carlo Ancelotti's style and the club's long-term plans.