Crystal Palace moved the goal posts – much to Newcastle United’s annoyance – in the Marc Guehi saga
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish was happy to drag Newcastle United along over the Marc Guehi saga given their previous approach for Dougie Freedman.
The Magpies were understood to be targeting the sporting director earlier this year. At the time, Newcastle were yet to agree on a compensation package with Manchester United for Dan Ashworth.
A raft of names had been shortlisted and Freedman appeared to be the front-runner to lead the mini restructure at St James’ Park. However, the 50-year-old remained in South London amid concerns over his pay packet.
Newcastle ultimately appointed former Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton and Monaco supremo Paul Mitchell to replace Ashworth. Ironically, his top priority throughout the summer was Palace centre-back Guehi after he starred for England at Euro 2024.
Toon chiefs are understood to have seen multiple bids rejected for the 24-year-old – the highest worth around £70million. The Daily Mail now claims that Palace were prepared to lead Newcastle down the garden path due to their previous Freedman approach.
Parish publicly spoke about Guehi throughout the saga – going as far as to praise the Magpies for their professionalism. The Palace chairman did, however, suggest it would take “superstar money” to land the defender.
The latest report hints at Parish “enjoying” wasting Newcastle’s time in the closing stages of the window. As it happened, the Magpies finished the summer without a centre-back or right-sided attacker – their two key priorities.
Fans have been left dismayed by the Toon hierarchy’s transfer strategy – with many believing Eddie Howe’s position could become under threat. Club icon Alan Shearer was one of many to speak out about the club “failing” to back the manager.
