According to a report from Manchester Evening News, Manchester United are set to encounter stiff competition if they aim to secure the services of Crystal Palace center-back Marc Guehi in the upcoming year. It has been suggested that Arsenal have entered the race to acquire the 23-year-old England defender. Guehi, who is highly sought after, has been the subject of significant interest and speculation, particularly regarding a potential move to Old Trafford in recent weeks.
Guehi’s Outstanding Season with Crystal Palace So Far
Marc Guehi is playing an integral role in Crystal Palace’s defensive lineup, earning praise for his robust performances at the back. The English talent has featured in nine matches for the club, consistently showcasing his defensive skills in the heart of their defense.
The 23-year-old has maintained a high level of consistency and reliability within his own half, averaging 1.3 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, and 4.6 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League. Furthermore, he has exhibited remarkable ball distribution from the defensive line, boasting an impressive pass completion rate of 90.2% in the English top tier (statistics provided by whoscored). Guehi’s displays have only reinforced his standing as a gifted and dependable defender at Crystal Palace.
Is Erik Ten Hag’s Choice To Target Guehi A Wise Move For Manchester United?
Guehi brings a robust and physically imposing presence to the defensive line, rendering him exceptionally effective in aerial duels and when defending set-pieces – areas where Chelsea has encountered challenges. His astute ability to read the game and position himself for crucial tackles further bolsters his worth. Moreover, Guehi swiftly neutralizes threats posed by opposing attackers, underscoring his keen defensive instincts.
Taking these attributes into account, the 23-year-old represents a valuable potential addition to United’s defensive roster. With his youth and evident talent, Guehi possesses all the qualities required to thrive at Old Trafford, introducing healthy competition among central defenders and offering a promising long-term investment.
From this perspective, United’s decision to pursue the Crystal Palace defender stands as a judicious choice. Guehi’s defensive acumen potentially surpasses that of Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire, and his acquisition could be accomplished at a reasonable cost. If the Mancunian club succeeds in securing Guehi’s signature, it may prove to be a strategic and advantageous move for their squad.
