Arsenal are reportedly positioning themselves to make a January move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, with midfielder Declan Rice having already provided a compelling reason for his former England teammate's suitability at the Emirates.
The Intelligence Factor Prized by Arteta
In a revealing social media segment from 2023, Declan Rice was asked to describe his international colleagues with a single word. When Marc Guehi's name arose, Rice's immediate response was "intelligent". This endorsement carries significant weight, especially as Rice had just used the same word for Brighton's Lewis Dunk, suggesting Guehi might even be considered the squad's foremost thinker.
This characteristic is one that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta demonstrably values. Speaking about midfielder Jorginho in 2023, Arteta praised the Italian's "footballing intelligence" and his coach-like understanding of the game. More recently, when discussing his own midfield combinations, Arteta again highlighted intelligence as a critical quality for his players.
A Competitive Transfer Battle Looms
The 25-year-old centre-back, whose contract at Selhurst Park expires in the summer of 2026, was close to joining Liverpool last summer before the deal collapsed. His future is now a major talking point in the January window.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has admitted the club is not naive about the situation. "If a massive offer comes from [Manchester] City and Marc wants to do it, it will happen," Glasner stated, confirming the player holds the final decision. Reports suggest a bid in the region of £40 million could be enough to secure Guehi's services this month.
Arsenal, who extended their lead at the Premier League summit after a goalless draw with Liverpool, face fierce competition. Alongside Liverpool and Manchester City, German giants Bayern Munich are also said to be monitoring the defender's situation closely.
What Guehi Could Bring to North London
Guehi's potential acquisition aligns with Arteta's clear preference for clever, tactically astute players who can adapt and understand complex in-game scenarios. Rice's firsthand testimony provides a powerful internal recommendation for the Gunners' hierarchy.
Securing Guehi's signature would not only bolster Arsenal's defensive options but also deal a direct blow to their title rivals. With the January window open, the race for one of England's most promising defenders is heating up, and Arsenal have received a notable hint from within their own ranks.
