Done Deal: Newcastle United Finalises Agreement with Crystal Palace Center-Back Marc Guéhi for a 3-Year Deal…
By Football Daily Press | June 1, 2025
In a move that has sent ripples across the Premier League landscape, Newcastle United have officially completed the signing of Crystal Palace’s highly-rated centre-back, Marc Guéhi, on a three-year deal. The transfer marks one of the first significant defensive acquisitions of the summer window and underscores Newcastle’s intention to reinforce their backline as they continue their ambitious project under the ownership of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).
The Announcement: Statement from St. James’ Park
On Sunday morning, both Newcastle United and Crystal Palace released official statements confirming the completion of the deal. Newcastle’s club website described Guéhi as “a commanding presence and a technically gifted defender who brings pace, intelligence, and Premier League experience to our defensive line.”
Sporting Director Dan Ashworth, who played a pivotal role in securing the move, expressed his delight:
> “Marc is a player we’ve admired for a long time. His performances at Crystal Palace and with the England national team demonstrate maturity beyond his years. We’re thrilled to have him on board as we build a squad capable of competing at the highest levels.”
Manager Eddie Howe also weighed in, calling Guéhi “a natural leader with exceptional defensive instincts.”
The Details of the Transfer
Although neither club disclosed the official fee, sources close to the negotiations suggest the deal is worth around £48 million, with potential add-ons bringing the total value up to £55 million based on appearances, clean sheets, and European qualification bonuses.
Guéhi has agreed to a three-year contract, reportedly earning a weekly wage of £120,000, a significant upgrade from his terms at Crystal Palace. His arrival addresses a long-standing need for Newcastle to reinforce the centre of their defense with a young, durable, and proven Premier League performer.
Why Guéhi? The Logic Behind the Signing
At just 24 years old, Marc Guéhi brings a rare combination of youth and experience. Since arriving at Crystal Palace from Chelsea in 2021 for around £18 million, Guéhi has developed into one of the most consistent and composed centre-backs in the Premier League. Over the past three seasons, he has made over 100 top-flight appearances, captaining Palace on multiple occasions and earning call-ups to the England senior squad.
Guéhi’s tactical intelligence, positional awareness, and passing ability make him an ideal fit for Eddie Howe’s tactical setup. He excels at playing out from the back and is known for his ability to break lines with his passing—traits highly valued by Newcastle’s evolving football philosophy. Furthermore, Guéhi’s pace and strength make him well-suited to a high defensive line and aggressive pressing style.
With questions surrounding the long-term futures of club veterans like Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schär, the arrival of Guéhi signals a new era of defensive stability at St. James’ Park.
Crystal Palace’s Reaction
While the Eagles were reportedly reluctant to let Guéhi leave, the lure of European football and the player’s personal ambition played decisive roles. Palace Chairman Steve Parish released a short statement thanking Guéhi for his contributions:
> “Marc has been a model professional and a leader on and off the pitch. We would have loved to keep him, but we respect his desire to take this next step in his career. He leaves with our best wishes.”
The move will certainly be a blow to new Palace manager Oliver Glasner, who had hoped to build his backline around Guéhi. However, the transfer fee is expected to significantly boost the club’s transfer budget, allowing them to reinvest in multiple areas.
England Implications: A Timely Boost Ahead of Euro 2028 Qualifiers
Guéhi’s move to Newcastle could not have come at a better time from an England perspective. With the Euro 2028 qualifiers looming and Gareth Southgate placing greater emphasis on players gaining experience in top-level club football, the transfer provides Guéhi with a platform to feature in European competitions and improve further.
Guéhi is widely seen as a key part of England’s next generation of defenders, and regular football at a club like Newcastle—who are aiming to establish themselves as consistent top-four contenders—should enhance his international credentials.
What This Means for Newcastle United
Newcastle’s ambitions are clear. After qualifying for the Champions League in the 2023–24 season, the Magpies narrowly missed out on European competition in 2024–25, finishing 7th after a turbulent campaign marred by injuries and squad fatigue. Eddie Howe and the club hierarchy are determined not to repeat that.
The acquisition of Marc Guéhi is seen as part of a wider strategy to build depth and resilience. It’s understood that the club is targeting at least two more defensive reinforcements, including a right-back and a versatile left-footed centre-back. Additionally, midfield and striking positions are also on the radar, with links to players such as João Palhinha of Fulham and Dominic Calvert-Lewin from Everton gaining traction.
Fan Reaction: Optimism Reignited
The Geordie faithful have welcomed the signing with great enthusiasm. Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions from Newcastle fans praising the move as “elite business” and “a step in the right direction.” Guéhi jerseys are already appearing in club shops and fan pages, signaling strong support for the new arrival.
Meanwhile, some Palace fans have voiced disappointment at losing one of their defensive lynchpins but acknowledge that the club has earned a hefty profit and that Guéhi deserved a chance to compete at the highest level.
Guéhi’s First Words as a Newcastle Player
In his first interview with NUFC TV, Marc Guéhi spoke confidently and gratefully:
> “It’s an honor to join a club with such a rich history and passionate fanbase. Newcastle is a team on the rise, and I’m excited to be part of the journey. I’ve had great years at Palace, but this is a challenge I couldn’t turn down. I can’t wait to get started at St. James’ Park.”
Guéhi is expected to join the squad immediately for pre-season preparations and could make his unofficial debut during Newcastle’s upcoming summer tour in the United States.
Final Thoughts: A Deal that Signals Intent
This deal is more than just a defensive upgrade—it’s a statement of intent. Newcastle United are no longer just participants in the Premier League; they are contenders with a clear strategy and growing financial muscle. Signing Marc Guéhi marks a significant step in the club’s evolution and lays down a marker for what’s to come in the transfer window.
As the Premier League gears up for what promises to be another thrilling season, Newcastle’s acquisition of one of England’s brightest defensive talents could prove to be a masterstroke. The Guéhi era at St. James’ Park has officially begun.
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