With both players entering an uncertain phase of their careers, United could accelerate their defensive rebuild ahead of schedule.
Guehi, 25, is approaching the final six months of his contract at Selhurst Park, a development that has put several European heavyweights on high alert.
Palace blocked his Deadline Day move to Liverpool in the summer, hoping further negotiations would open the way to renewal, but those talks have largely stalled.
Marc Guehi will become a free agent next year
As it stands, the centre-back will be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract deal with foreign clubs from January, significantly weakening Palace’s influence.
Maguire is in a similar contractual situation. Discussions over an extension for the former United captain have made “limited progress”, as reported by Mail Sport, raising the possibility that the club may have to find and secure a replacement in the coming months.
United initially planned to wait until the summer to address their defensive options, but growing uncertainty over Maguire’s future could prompt earlier action if the right opportunity presents itself.
That opportunity could also apply to Guehi, a player widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s most composed and athletic defenders.
Man United are facing stiff competition to sign Guehi
Guehi has developed into a key figure for both club and country, winning admiration for his ball-playing ability, leadership qualities and consistency in high-pressure matches. His performances have not gone unnoticed throughout Europe.
Several elite teams including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester City and Liverpool are all monitoring his availability, making Guehi one of the most sought-after defenders in world football heading into 2026.
Palace are expected to fight hard to keep him, but the combination of his contract status and increasing interest makes a move increasingly likely.
Should Maguire’s departure accelerate, United may have to enter the race sooner rather than later.
Man United plot move for player who could be the difference “between winning and losing”
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