The name Marc Guehi has been on FC Bayern’s radar for months, and the closer the summer of 2026 gets, the hotter the trail becomes. The England international from Crystal Palace is regarded as one of the most sought-after centre-backs in Europe. Consistent media reports have repeatedly emphasised how highly FCB rate the 25-year-old. Now it has been confirmed that Bayern have much better cards in the race for Guehi than many in England had recently assumed.
While the German record champions are doing everything they can to extend Dayot Upamecano’s contract, the parallel scouting line for a possible Plan B has been running for a long time. Marc Guehi is at the top of the wish list – regardless of whether Upamecano stays. Should Minjae Kim seek a new challenge in the summer of 2026, Guehi could immediately become the main target.
Liverpool rumor refuted – Guehi is keeping everything open
There were rumours circulating in England that Guehi had given Liverpool FC his „word“ after the failed transfer last summer that he would move to Anfield Road after a year’s delay. As a result, Bayern’s interest seemed to have no chance.
However, renowned transfer insider David Ornstein contradicts this theory, saying that the claim is „far from the truth“. There can be no question of a preliminary decision in Liverpool’s favour – on the contrary: the race is completely wide open.
According to Ornstein, Guehi, whose contract at Crystal Palace expires at the end of the season, wants to „listen to all interested parties“ before making a decision. In addition to Bayern, Barcelona, Manchester City and Liverpool are also mentioned as serious contenders.
Bayern can negotiate earlier – a real competitive advantage
Perhaps the most important factor for FCB: Guehi is officially allowed to talk to foreign clubs from 1 January – English clubs are not allowed to do so until the summer. Bayern can therefore enter into concrete contract negotiations months earlier, present its project and demonstrate sporting prospects.
This not only gives the Munich club time, but also a strategic advantage over Liverpool and City. Bayern is currently one of the few clubs in Europe that is reliably in the Champions League title race despite the upheaval – a decisive criterion for Guehi, who, according to Ornstein, „wants to play for a club that is in contention for the top flight“.
Sporting prospects could ultimately tip the scales: the lower Bayern finish in the Champions League this season, the more attractive a move to Munich becomes.
The centre-back is looking for a club that is in the big games every year – exactly where Bayern have re-established themselves. While Liverpool are currently wavering, FCB can score points with stability, clear squad planning under Vincent Kompany and a strong axis.