Barcelona’s long-term squad planning has intensified in recent months as the club continues restructuring under both financial pressure and sporting necessity.
The Catalans have been mapping out their 2026 blueprint with particular urgency, aware that several contracts are nearing expiry and key positions require decisive reinforcement.
Defensive depth has been a consistent talking point within the club’s technical offices, especially as Barca aim to avoid repeating mistakes made in previous transfer windows.
The lack of stability at the back has become increasingly evident in high-stakes fixtures, strengthening the belief that a new central defender must arrive sooner rather than later.
And as Europe’s biggest clubs lock in their strategies for next summer, Barcelona have now turned their attention to one standout Premier League option.
FC Barcelona intend to sign a new centre-back in the summer of 2026 after failing to adequately replace Inigo Martinez, whose unexpected departure earlier this year left a significant void.
Among the candidates identified by Deco and his recruitment team is Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, a 25-year-old England international with a strong Premier League pedigree.
Marc Guehi is viewed as an ideal profile not only because of his quality, but also due to his contract situation: he becomes a free agent at the end of the season.
That makes him a particularly attractive target for Barcelona, who must prioritise financially efficient signings as they continue navigating tight economic controls.
The club have been monitoring Guehi’s situation closely, seeing him as a defender who ticks multiple boxes: age, experience, tactical versatility, and affordability.
However, the Blaugrana are far from alone in the race.
According to the Daily Mail, Manchester United are also tracking Guehi as he enters the final phase of his Crystal Palace contract.
The Red Devils are preparing for possible defensive changes next summer, especially with little progress being made in renewal discussions with Harry Maguire, whose deal also expires at the end of the season.
With Ruben Amorim eager to bolster his backline, United have identified Guehi as a potential solution, adding significant competition for Barca.
This comes on top of interest from Bayern Munich and Liverpool, who have also been linked with the former Chelsea academy product.
Barcelona’s need for a centre-back is urgent.
Not only was no replacement signed after Inigo Martinez left for Saudi Arabia, but Andreas Christensen’s contract also expires at the end of the season, with no extension reportedly planned.
Guehi, therefore, represents a smart and realistic market opportunity for the club.
But with top European sides circling, Barcelona will need to act quickly, and decisively, if they hope to bring the England international to the Camp Nou.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
