Ajax 'strongly committed' to transfer for ex-Chelsea and Premier League star

31 Aug 2023 09:55 BST
3 min read

Marc Guéhi of Crystal Palace is, according to English media, in the picture to strengthen Ajax's defense.

The four-time England international has become a stronghold in London in recent years and probably also has a hefty price tag after he was taken over from Chelsea for €23.4 million two years ago.

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It is no secret that Ajax wants to use the last days of the transfer period to further organise the squad. In addition to the imminent departure of Francisco Conceição to FC Porto, the intention is that a number of players will move to the Johan Cruijff ArenA.

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One of those players is Guéhi. The Ivory Coast-born defender came to England at a young age, where he went through the entire Chelsea youth academy.

After a year and a half on loan to Swansea City, the now 23-year-old defender left for Crystal Palace in 2021 after having played only two games for Chelsea.

On the other side of London, the defender grew into a strong player, which resulted in his debut for the England team in March 2022. Since then, Guéhi has been a regular part of Gareth Southgate's team and played another ninety minutes in June in the European Championship qualifier against Malta (0-4 win).

Ajax have alternatives in mind to Guehi

Ajax is now in negotiations with Crystal Palace for the arrival of Guéhi, but is also keeping its eyes open for other options. Barcelona's Eric García is also in the picture to strengthen Ajax's rearguard.

The Spanish international came over transfer-free from Manchester City in 2021, but can no longer always count on a basic place at Barcelona. For that reason, García hopes to be able to be rented out in the final days of the transfer market.

Arsenal and Tottenham have held a long-term interest in Guehi but Palace have previously quoted an asking price of more than €50m, which has held off any move.

Guehi has three years remaining on his contract at Palace, while Chelsea are also believed to have first refusal on any transfer.