Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly identified Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi as a potential summer transfer target.
While Spurs are currently well stocked for options at the back, that has not necessarily improved their fortunes during 2022-23.
Although clean sheets have recently been kept against Fulham and Manchester City, Antonio Conte's side have still conceded 31 goals in 22 Premier League fixtures.
That leaves Spurs with the 14th best record in the top flight and one which Conte will be eager to improve as the season progresses.
However, it appears that consideration is already being given to potential additions during the next transfer window.
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According to the Daily Mail, the North London outfit are contemplating whether to move for Guehi.
Over the past three campaigns, the 22-year-old has made a total of 96 league starts for Swansea City and Palace after failing to become a regular fixture in the Chelsea side.
Since moving to Palace in July 2021 for £18m, Guehi's stock has only been on an upward trajectorty, establishing himself as the Eagles' first-choice centre-back.
In 2022, Guehi was rewarded for his progression with a call-up to the England squad, with three caps being earned with Gareth Southgate's side since his initial selection in March.
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With Guehi possessing a contract until 2026, Palace are not in a position where they necessarily have to consider cashing in on the player.
Nevertheless, it is claimed that a bid of £45m may be enough to get the club's attention, aware that it is money which could be reinvested back into the squad.
The report suggests that Guehi's homegrown status is part of the reason why Spurs may look to secure his signature ahead of 2023-24.
As it stands, Spurs have six Englishmen in their first-team squad, as well as Ben Davies who also fits the relevant criteria, but doubts remain over whether players such as Japhet Tanganga and Harry Kane will remain at the club in the long term.
Darren Plant
