As Crystal Palace gear up for a historic FA Cup final showdown against Manchester City at Wembley, there’s an undercurrent of tension surrounding the futures of two of their standout stars—Eberechi Eze and Marc Guéhi. Both players have been pivotal to Palace’s recent resurgence, and their sparkling form has not gone unnoticed. With transfer interest heating up, Palace may face the daunting task of replacing two of the most sought-after talents in the Premier League.
While the club’s immediate focus is on silverware, fans and management alike are bracing for a potential summer shake-up that could redefine the team’s trajectory heading into next season.
2. Eberechi Eze’s Breakout Season
Eberechi Eze has dazzled fans and pundits alike throughout the 2024/25 campaign. With 12 goals and 11 assists across all competitions, the versatile attacking midfielder has become the creative heartbeat of Crystal Palace. Eze’s ability to glide past defenders, link up play, and deliver decisive final-third contributions has been instrumental in Palace’s push to Wembley.
His flair, technique, and composure have earned him admirers across Europe. Tottenham Hotspur have been particularly aggressive in monitoring his situation, while Manchester City and Arsenal also reportedly view him as a long-term investment. With his £68 million release clause set to become active in the coming months, Palace’s resolve is sure to be tested.
Eze’s Champions League ambitions may also accelerate a summer exit, especially if Palace fall short in the FA Cup final. While the Eagles are prepared to fight for his services, the allure of European football and bigger stages may ultimately prove decisive.
3. Marc Guéhi’s Defensive Masterclass
At the other end of the pitch, Marc Guéhi has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most reliable centre-backs. Since joining from Chelsea in 2021, he has clocked over 150 appearances and established himself as a leader both on and off the pitch. His reading of the game, aerial dominance, and cool-headed defending have been crucial in stabilizing Palace’s backline.
Guéhi’s performances have not only caught the eye of England manager Gareth Southgate, but also top scouts from Spain. Reports suggest both Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in acquiring his services, with Guéhi reportedly favoring a move to La Liga if the opportunity arises.
One factor tipping the scale toward Spain is his Ivorian passport, which grants him a non-EU exemption under the Cotonou Agreement—something post-Brexit UK nationals no longer enjoy in the EU market. Guéhi could run down his current deal, which expires in 2026, to facilitate a free transfer—unless Palace act quickly to extend or sell.
4. Summer Transfer Interest
The transfer buzz around Eze and Guéhi isn’t just idle speculation—it’s backed by serious suitors. Tottenham is reportedly ready to trigger Eze’s release clause, while Arsenal and Man City are also monitoring closely. For Guéhi, interest spans the Premier League—Chelsea, Newcastle, and Spurs are all watching—yet his camp is said to be leaning toward Spain’s top clubs.
Palace, aware of the demand, are walking a tightrope. Selling both players could generate over £100 million, funds that could be reinvested—but it would also dismantle the core of a team on the rise.
5. Contract Details and Release Clauses
Eze’s £68 million release clause becomes active soon, and though Palace are reluctant to lose their star, they know the power lies with interested clubs meeting that valuation. Guéhi, on the other hand, has just one year remaining on his deal and could be sold now to avoid losing him for free in 2026.
Guéhi’s renewed Ivorian citizenship may also fast-track a move abroad, as it eases registration burdens for clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona who are bound by non-EU player limits.
6. The Manager’s Position
Head coach Oliver Glasner is aware of the noise surrounding his stars but remains focused on the task at hand. Privately, he is believed to have accepted the likelihood of at least one high-profile departure. Sources suggest Glasner has already begun shortlisting replacements and is in discussions with the club’s hierarchy over summer recruitment.
His vision is to build a younger, more dynamic side that can play an aggressive style of football and compete for European spots consistently.
