A Premier League star shocks Barcelona and Hansi Flick and makes it clear: The priority is Real Madrid!

The European season has only just begun, yet the transfer market is already buzzing with speculation and early negotiations. Clubs across the continent are quietly planning their next moves for the summer, identifying the players who could define their future success. Among the emerging names, one stands out more than most — Marc Guehi, Crystal Palace’s defensive jewel, who has become one of the most sought-after talents in European football.

At just 24 years old, Guehi has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent and intelligent center-backs. His composure, physicality, and leadership at the back have not gone unnoticed, and now several of Europe’s biggest clubs — including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Liverpool — are all watching him closely. Yet, what has truly set tongues wagging across Spain is the player’s own preference: Guehi’s heart seems firmly set on wearing the famous white shirt of Real Madrid.

According to reports from respected journalist Florian Plettenberg, the English defender has made it clear that his dream destination is the Santiago Bernabéu. This revelation has reportedly stunned Barcelona and head coach Hansi Flick, who had been quietly monitoring Guehi as part of the club’s long-term rebuilding project. Flick, known for his emphasis on structured defending and tactical intelligence, viewed Guehi as a perfect modern defender who could fit seamlessly into his evolving Blaugrana system.

However, despite Barcelona’s admiration, Real Madrid appears to have stolen a decisive lead in the race. The Spanish giants, led by top scout Johnny Calafat, have identified Guehi as a priority target for 2026 and see him as the ideal successor to their aging defensive duo — David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger. With both veterans entering the final stages of their illustrious careers, Madrid’s hierarchy is determined to rejuvenate the backline with youthful energy and long-term stability.

Behind the scenes, Madrid’s sporting project seems to have deeply impressed Guehi. Sources close to the player suggest that he is fascinated by the club’s reputation for nurturing young talent into global stars. The likes of Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham serve as proof of Real Madrid’s commitment to building around youth — and Guehi wants to be the next in line.

Liverpool and Bayern Munich have also expressed concrete interest, each seeing Guehi as a natural addition to their defensive systems. Liverpool, in particular, view him as a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk. But despite the competition, Madrid’s pull remains unmatched. The emotional weight of joining the world’s most decorated club and competing for La Liga and Champions League titles appears to be irresistible.

Barcelona, meanwhile, face a new dilemma. Flick’s defensive plans included finding a reliable, young center-back who could balance composure and aggression — traits Guehi embodies. Losing him to arch-rivals Real Madrid would not only hurt the Catalan club’s ambitions but also reinforce the growing perception that Madrid’s project has become the more attractive destination for emerging stars. Flick reportedly remains hopeful that Barcelona can convince the player through their sporting vision, but the signs are increasingly bleak.

Negotiations are still in their early stages, but Crystal Palace are bracing for a major bidding war. With Guehi’s contract running until June 2026, Palace hold a strong negotiating position. They are expected to demand a fee in the region of €60–70 million, a price tag that could rise even higher if the defender continues his excellent form throughout the Premier League season.

Real Madrid’s management, however, are prepared to play the long game. They believe Guehi’s admiration for the club will ultimately prove decisive, and they are ready to move quickly once the summer window opens. If all goes according to plan, he could be unveiled as one of the club’s marquee signings of 2026 — a defensive cornerstone for the next decade.

As things stand, the saga is far from over. Rival clubs will continue to circle, and the next few months could bring twists that reshape the story entirely. But one thing is already certain: Marc Guehi has shocked Europe by making his intentions known. For Barcelona and Hansi Flick, it’s a bitter disappointment. For Real Madrid, it’s yet another reminder that when the world’s brightest talents dream big — they dream in white.