Siddharth Juyal
Manchester United target Marc Guehi wants to stay at Crystal Palace for the rest of the season
Manchester United target Marc Guehi wanted to stay at Crystal Palace to keep his place secure in the England squad. The 23-year-old is a pivotal part of Roy Hodgson’s set-up at Crystal Palace that helped him earn an international call-up.
Manchester United have conceded 33 goals from 20 matches in all competitions so far this season. The defensive vulnerability played a major factor in their struggle this season as they’ve lost nine matches.
United manager Erik ten Hag used Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as his first-choice centre-back last season. The defensive combination helped the Dutchman enjoy a successful first season at the club with Champions League qualification. Furthermore, the Red Devils ended their six-year trophy drought by winning the Carabao Cup with the help of their defence.
However, Varane has struggled with nagging injuries and fitness concerns as he fell behind in the pecking order this season. On the other hand, Martinez has missed most of the season due to a long-term injury. The emergency centre-back Jonny Evans, signed during the summer, is currently out injured as well.
United have deployed on-form centre-back Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof in recent games with Varane as the only extra option. Fabrizio Romano reported that the Red Devils have a shortlist of defenders to target during the 2024 transfer windows.
In recent weeks, rumors have linked the Eagles’ centre-back Guehi with a move to the Red Devils. However, 90min (h/t Manchester Evening News) reported that the 23-year-old is not keen on a move during the January window.
The English international received his first international call-up in March 2022 under the current manager Gareth Southgate. The 23-year-old has established himself in the England squad after playing regular first-team football at Palace.
More Manchester United News-
- Sir Jim Ratcliffe ‘targets’ £140m double transfer for Manchester United
- “Don’t have to entertain”- Pundit slams Ten Hag approach as Manchester United continue to stumble
- “I’m very pleased”- Erik ten Hag happy with Manchester United’s performance after draw vs Galatasaray
Guehi must maintain his exceptional form by consistently playing to secure his selection for the Euro 2024 tournament next year. To wait for the centre-back until the summer of 2024 or choose to shift their attention elsewhere is a decision that United may make. Guehi’s Premier League experience gives him a significant advantage, even as Manchester United considers links with top-class talents from Europe.
