Marc Guehi’s potential departure from Crystal Palace this summer would leave a significant gap in their defence, given his role as captain, his consistent performances, and his status as an England international. With his contract entering its final year, Palace are reportedly preparing for his exit by targeting replacements. Below are realistic defenders who could replace Guehi at Crystal Palace, based on their profiles, transfer feasibility, and fit within Palace’s system under Oliver Glasner.
Ousmane Diomande (Sporting)
A 20-year-old Ivorian centre-back, Diomande is a ball-playing defender with strong aerial ability and composure, fitting Glasner’s 3-4-2-1 system. He has been a regular starter for Sporting Lisbon in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, showcasing his ability to read the game and distribute from the back.
Ronnie Edwards (Peterborough United)
A 21-year-old English centre-back, Edwards is a modern defender known for his ball-playing ability and composure. He played nearly every minute of Peterborough’s League One campaign in 2023/24, demonstrating reliability and potential.
Jacob Greaves (Hull City)
The 23-year-old left-footed centre-back has been a standout in the Championship, earning a spot in the 2023/24 EFL Team of the Season. Greaves excels in defensive duels (outperforming Guehi in some metrics) and is comfortable playing out from the back, fitting Palace’s system.
Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic)
A 27-year-old American centre-back, Carter-Vickers is a physical, no-nonsense defender who excels in set-piece situations and defensive solidity. He has been a regular for Celtic in the Scottish Premiership.
