Phil SumblerWe always knew last season we had a class act in the centre of our defence. And we also always knew that our only chance of holding onto him would be to win promotion to the Premier League. And now we know that even if that had happened it would take £20m of our money to prise him away from Stamford Bridge.
News filtered through yesterday of that being the sum of money that the two London clubs had agreed on for Guehi to make the move across the capital and now all that it seems to stand in the way is the negotiation over the terms of the deal.
We know from experience that in Crystal Palace’s world that means nothing at all after their elongated – and largely farcical – search for a new manager ended with Patrick Viera appointed in the role. But since his appointment he has wasted little time in making moves in the transfer market and for players we know well following reports earlier in the week that he was also in talks with Andre Ayew.
Whilst the initial transfer fee is less than £20m that could be the total value of the sale with sell on clauses and Chelsea also insisting on a further clause allowing them to match any future sale value should they wish to buy back the player.
Interestingly it is also rumoured that Palace could be in for another of the Swans former loan players in Conor Gallagher almost suggesting that whilst Cooper wasn’t the man for them his contact list may have dropped out in their office… Viktor Gyokeres anyone?
If Guehi is worth £20 million we should looking at least for Ben Cabango.