In a stunning twist to Arsenal’s January transfer pursuits, fresh revelations about Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi’s preferences have surfaced, potentially paving the way for a blockbuster double deal that could reshape Mikel Arteta’s squad. With the winter window entering its final three weeks, the Gunners are ramping up their efforts to strengthen their defensive line amid a dominant season at the top of the Premier League.
Arsenal, currently enjoying a six-point lead in the league standings after a convincing 4-1 FA Cup victory over Portsmouth, have been linked with several high-profile targets. But the latest buzz centers on Guehi, the 25-year-old England international who has been a standout performer for Palace this campaign, featuring in 20 Premier League matches. Reports indicate that Guehi is inclined to remain at Selhurst Park until the summer, but when he does move, his preferred destinations are Liverpool and Arsenal—snubbing interest from Manchester City.
This insight comes from Athletic journalist Sam Lee, who shared on the Let Me Talk podcast: “On Monday night, I was told by somebody who knows what’s going on at City, but also I think probably Palace as well, he said he thinks Guehi wants to stay until the summer and he prefers Liverpool [to City] in any case.” Adding fuel to the fire, another reliable source corroborated this, emphasizing Guehi’s favoritism toward Liverpool and Arsenal. This “bombshell” stance could give the Gunners a significant edge in negotiations, especially after Guehi’s failed £35 million deadline-day switch to Liverpool last September.
Guehi’s potential arrival would be a major coup for Arteta, providing much-needed depth and quality at center-back. The defender is also tipped for inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the upcoming World Cup, underscoring his rising stock in the game.
But the drama doesn’t stop there. Arsenal’s transfer ambitions could extend to a sensational double swoop, with reports linking them to Rennes’ promising defender Jeremy Jacquet. According to Football Insider, the Gunners have joined Liverpool and Chelsea in the race for the Ligue 1 starlet, who has caught the eye of top clubs with his performances in France.
Chelsea have been monitoring Jacquet for months, but Arsenal’s entry into the fray—alongside their Merseyside rivals—signals a heated battle for his signature. At just 20 years old (assuming based on typical profiles; exact age not specified in reports), Jacquet represents a long-term investment, blending youthful energy with defensive solidity that aligns perfectly with Arteta’s tactical blueprint.
If Arsenal manage to secure both Guehi in the summer and Jacquet this January, it would constitute a “double deal” that could fortify their backline for years to come. While Guehi’s preference for a delayed move tempers immediate expectations, the Gunners’ proactive scouting suggests they’re positioning themselves for a seamless transition. Sources indicate that talks could accelerate as the February 2 deadline approaches, with Arteta keen to avoid last-minute scrambles.
This development comes at a pivotal time for Arsenal, who are preparing for their Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Chelsea. A strong showing in the cups, combined with their league dominance, could make the Emirates an even more attractive destination for top talents like Guehi and Jacquet.
As the transfer window ticks down, fans will be watching closely for any breakthroughs. Could this be the catalyst for Arsenal’s next era of success? Only time will tell, but the emergence of Guehi’s stance has certainly dropped a bombshell on the rumor mill. Stay tuned for more updates as the story unfolds.