Barcelona are already preparing for changes in their defensive line after losing Iñigo Martínez in the summer transfer window. The Spanish centre-back played an important role last season and was the only left-footed defender available to the coach, giving balance to the backline. His departure has left a noticeable void, pushing the club to look for alternatives much earlier than expected.
Since the market closed, several high-profile defenders have been mentioned as possible targets. Names such as Alessandro Bastoni, Lisandro Martínez, Murillo, Gonçalo Inácio, and Luis Gustavo Benedetti have all surfaced in reports. Each of these players has qualities that would add something different to the squad, but Barcelona’s priority remains clear: to restore stability and depth in defence.
Marc Guehi’s tense situation at palace
One of the players now on Barcelona’s radar is Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan club are closely watching developments after the English defender’s relationship with his current side took a turn for the worse.
Guehi was strongly linked with Liverpool toward the end of the last transfer window and came close to sealing a move. However, Palace refused to approve the deal, keeping him in London. That decision has since strained the connection between player and club. With his contract set to run until 2026, Guehi has reportedly made it clear he does not intend to sign an extension, raising doubts about his long-term future at Selhurst Park.
Barcelona and Madrid in the race
The uncertainty has created an opportunity for other clubs to step in. If Palace are unable to reach an agreement, they face the risk of losing Guehi for free when his contract expires. This potential scenario has put Barcelona on alert as they look for a defender who can strengthen their backline both in the short and long term.
However, they will not have a clear run at the player. Real Madrid are also said to be monitoring Guehi’s situation, setting up the possibility of another head-to-head battle between Spain’s two biggest clubs. While this is not the first time Guehi’s name has been linked to Barcelona, it is still too early to know if this interest will lead to serious negotiations or remain speculation.
For now, Barcelona continue to explore their defensive options, knowing they need to fill the gap left by Martínez. Whether that solution comes in the form of a high-profile signing like Bastoni or Inácio, or a move for Guehi, only time will tell.
