Crystal Palace kicked off their Premier League season against Chelsea on Sunday with two of their biggest stars, Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi, in the starting lineup. What makes this surprising is that both players are currently in advanced transfer talks with rival Premier League clubs.
 |
| Eze & Guehi |
Eze has been linked strongly with Tottenham Hotspur, while Guehi is a target for Liverpool. Despite the speculation, Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed before the game at Stamford Bridge that there was “no reason” not to play them.
“Marc [Guehi] and Eze trained well the whole week,” Glasner told reporters. “Of course there is no reason not to start them. Don’t believe everything you read in the newspapers.”
Tottenham’s Push for Eze
According to BBC Sport, Tottenham have been working on a deal for Eze since earlier this week. The 27-year-old forward had a release clause in his contract worth £60 million, plus £8 million in add-ons. However, that clause has now expired.
Spurs are still eager to land him, but negotiations are focused on a price slightly below the total value of that clause. Eze has impressed in recent seasons with his creativity and ability to score from midfield, making him one of the most exciting attacking players outside the traditional top six.
If Tottenham manage to complete the transfer, Eze would become one of their marquee summer signings, potentially slotting into Ange Postecoglou’s attack to add more flair and depth.
Liverpool Targeting Guehi
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi is at the center of talks with Liverpool. The England international has built a strong reputation as one of the most reliable young defenders in the Premier League.
Palace chairman Steve Parish recently admitted that the club may have no choice but to sell Guehi this summer. With his contract nearing its end, there is a risk he could leave for free next year. Parish made it clear that if the right offer arrives, the club will consider it.
Reports suggest Palace are asking for around £40 million, but Liverpool are hoping to pay a little less. For the Reds, Guehi could provide much-needed depth in central defense, especially with ongoing injury concerns and the need to prepare for the future.
What It Means for Palace
The possible departures of both Eze and Guehi would be a major blow for Crystal Palace. Eze is their most creative attacking player, while Guehi, as captain, is the leader of their defense. Losing both in the same transfer window would leave manager Oliver Glasner with significant rebuilding to do.
For now, though, both players remain committed to the team. Their inclusion in the starting XI against Chelsea shows their professionalism and Palace’s determination to remain competitive while transfer talks continue in the background.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Tottenham and Liverpool to see whether they can finalize deals for Eze and Guehi, or if Palace can convince their stars to stay at Selhurst Park a little longer.
0 Comments