Bayern Munich hold meeting with Marc Guehi's agent as European clubs ready January approaches for out-of-contract Crystal Palace captain

Guehi’s representatives have met with Bayern Munich over a possible transfer, according to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg. Bayern’s sporting director Max Eberl is understood to have held discussions this week with agent Gordon Stipic to assess the terms of a potential deal. The Bundesliga champions are preparing for defensive changes, with uncertainty over Dayot Upamecano’s contract extension and the possibility of Kim Min-jae being sold.

The meeting represents Bayern’s first significant step toward securing the 25-year-old, who is set to leave Crystal Palace after rejecting a new contract. Palace manager Oliver Glasner recently confirmed that Guehi has no intention of extending his stay beyond next summer, effectively paving the way for a departure. With his current deal expiring in 2026 but his refusal to renew making an exit inevitable, Guehi could very well be sold for a minimal fee in January’s winter transfer window.

Liverpool and Real Madrid are also in the running, both monitoring the situation closely as Guehi’s availability in January could open the door for early negotiations. Bayern’s proactive approach may, however, give them an edge in what is shaping up to be a fierce battle for his signature.

Bayern’s determination to strengthen their backline ahead of next season and stay ahead of European rivals. With Eberl seeking long-term defensive reinforcements, Guehi has emerged as one of his top two centre-back targets alongside Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck. The Bavarians are planning for potential exits in defence, as both Upamecano and Kim face uncertain futures at the Allianz Arena.

For Guehi, the situation marks a turning point in his career following a steady rise since joining Palace from Chelsea in 2021. The 25-year-old has developed into one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders, captaining Palace under Glasner and becoming a regular in the England squad. His leadership, composure on the ball, and tactical intelligence have made him a standout figure in south London, drawing attention from some of Europe’s most decorated clubs.

Palace, meanwhile, are bracing for the reality of losing their captain just months after securing European qualification for the first time. Glasner’s comments earlier this week hinted at a mutual understanding between player and club, suggesting both parties are now focused on handling the transition smoothly.

Guehi’s potential move has been on the cards since the summer, when Liverpool came close to finalising a transfer before Palace chairman Steve Parish blocked the deal at the last moment. The decision was made to keep stability in the squad ahead of their European campaign, but Guehi’s stance on a new contract has since remained unchanged. His refusal to extend has placed Palace in a difficult position, as they risk losing a key asset for a reduced fee next year or potentially for free in 2026.

For Bayern, the timing of the talks suggests they are looking to act decisively in January before their competitors. Guehi’s Premier League experience, combined with his leadership with the Three Lions, makes him an ideal candidate to slot into a rebuilding Bayern side preparing for the future.

Both Real Madrid and Liverpool remain serious contenders, with Los Blancos seeking long-term depth behind Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao, while the Reds look to strengthen a backline that has struggled with injuries.

With Bayern now having initiated formal contact, the focus shifts to whether they can agree on a framework that satisfies both Guehi’s camp and Crystal Palace. The player will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs in January, giving the German side a potential advantage over Liverpool. However, Palace could still attempt to engineer a winter sale to recoup a transfer fee rather than risk losing him for nothing later.

The Austrian coach has been open about his respect for Guehi’s professionalism and will expect the defender to remain focused while talks continue in the background. Crystal Palace’s upcoming fixtures includes a crucial Premier League clash with Arsenal before the Eagles travel to Anfield to take on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup.