Not long ago, Bayern Munich have taken the first major step toward signing Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, a move that has stirred strong reactions among Crickex Sign Up readers following the transfer market. The German champions have entered direct competition with Liverpool and Real Madrid, two clubs long linked with the England international. According to reports from Germany, Bayern sporting director Max Eberl has already met with Guehi’s representative to discuss terms, signaling their intent to move fast before the race heats up.

In recent days, Eberl reportedly sat down with agent Gordon Stipic to open formal dialogue regarding a summer move. Guehi’s current deal at Crystal Palace expires at the end of the season, and he has no plans to renew it. The 25-year-old came close to joining Liverpool in the final hours of the last transfer window, but that deal collapsed when Palace boss Oliver Glasner threatened to walk away if his defensive leader was sold. The club’s management ultimately stepped in, refusing to sanction the transfer despite Liverpool’s strong push.

Now that Guehi is approaching free-agent status, Real Madrid have joined the chase, while Manchester City and Barcelona are also keeping tabs. For Liverpool, who view him as a long-term partner for Virgil van Dijk, hesitation could prove costly. Bayern, meanwhile, are preparing to act decisively. Sources cited by Crickex Sign Up indicate that the club may lose either Dayot Upamecano or Kim Min-jae next summer, prompting early scouting for replacements. If either defender departs or refuses a contract extension, Guehi and Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck are expected to top Bayern’s defensive shortlist.

The 25-year-old Englishman has earned widespread praise for his maturity and leadership. So far this season, he has made 14 appearances for Palace, contributing one goal and one assist while maintaining his role as team captain. Despite last summer’s disappointment, when his Liverpool move was blocked, Guehi has handled the situation with professionalism and composure—qualities that have only strengthened his reputation across Europe.

Analysts following Crickex Sign Up suggest that next summer could bring a reshuffle of centre-backs among Europe’s biggest clubs. With multiple defenders nearing the end of their contracts, teams like Bayern and Liverpool are racing against time to secure top talent. For Guehi, the decision ahead could define the next stage of his career, and whichever club wins his signature will gain not just a reliable defender, but a natural leader ready for the game’s biggest stage.