Bayern Munich is poised to hijack Barcelona’s pursuit of a prime target, dealing a blow to the Catalans’ rebuild plans for summer 2026.
With Ronald Araujo’s future uncertain and challenges replacing the aging Inigo Martinez, Barcelona have identified a contract-expiring Premier League defender as a key free-agent option to bolster their backline.
However, mounting competition from Europe’s elite threatens to derail the Blaugrana’s strategy, especially as January signings remain off the table barring emergencies.
Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi emerges as Barcelona’s centre-back target now prioritising a move to Bayern Munich, according to reports from AS.
The English international, whose deal ends this season, has actively approached the Bavarians first despite interest from Barça, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid.
Bayern Munich views him as an ideal addition, even with Dayot Upamecano’s likely extension, fitting their need for defensive reinforcement amid a competitive Bundesliga campaign.
Guehi’s preference for Munich complicates Barcelona’s plans, where he would enhance depth alongside Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, and Eric García.
The report highlights his leadership qualities and ball-playing ability as a strong match for Hansi Flick’s system, but the player’s clear leanings shift momentum toward Germany.
Barcelona faces a dilemma: pivot to pricier alternatives like Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck, who mirrors Martinez’s style but enters his final contract year and demands a transfer fee.
This development underscores the cutthroat nature of the transfer market, with Bayern aggressively targeting multiple defensive profiles, including past interests like Jonathan Tah.
For Barcelona, missing Guehi could force sales or higher spending, testing their financial constraints under FFP rules.
As the window nears, the club must recalibrate to secure a leader capable of anchoring their title push.
As Bayern edge ahead in the race for this defensive talent, Barcelona must pivot swiftly to alternative targets to fortify their backline.
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