The January transfer window is heating up with two major Premier League clubs poised for significant moves. Arsenal have reportedly entered the race to sign Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guéhi, while Tottenham Hotspur are advancing in their pursuit of Brentford's German winger Kevin Schade.
Gunners Target Palace's Defensive Rock
Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are preparing to challenge Manchester United for the signature of Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guéhi. The 23-year-old, who has become a key figure for both his club and the England national team, is seen as a prime target to bolster the Gunners' defensive options.
Guéhi's current contract at Selhurst Park runs until the summer of 2026, but Palace's valuation is understood to be substantial, likely exceeding £50 million. Arsenal's interest signals a potential major defensive investment, as they look to build on their strong recent form with a long-term partner for William Saliba.
Spurs Close In on Brentford Speedster
Meanwhile, across North London, Tottenham Hotspur are making progress in a deal for Kevin Schade. The 22-year-old Brentford forward, capable of playing on either wing, is a player Ange Postecoglou has admired for some time.
Schade joined Brentford on a permanent basis from SC Freiburg just last summer for a fee in the region of £22 million. However, the opportunity to move to a club competing for Champions League qualification has proven attractive. Negotiations are ongoing, with the structure of the payment—whether a loan with an obligation or a straight permanent transfer—still being discussed between the two clubs.
Window Dynamics and Potential Domino Effects
These potential moves highlight the strategic planning of clubs in the mid-season window. Arsenal's push for Guéhi could force Manchester United to accelerate their own plans or look elsewhere, creating a ripple effect in the market.
For Tottenham, securing Schade would add blistering pace and directness to Postecoglou's attacking ranks, providing cover and competition for the likes of Dejan Kulusevski and Brennan Johnson. Brentford, known for their shrewd dealings, will be keen to ensure they receive full value for a player they only recently committed to on a long-term contract.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether these high-profile transfer rumours materialise into completed deals, shaping the squads of three London clubs for the pivotal second half of the season.
