Mixed messages as journalist says Newcastle's Marc Guehi deal is close to completion

One of these days when we write about Marc Guehi it will be because there has been a definitive statement made about his protracted move to Newcastle United - but it's not today.

The Telegraph's Luke Edwards has taken to X tonight to suggest that the long-gestating deal between Newcastle and Crystal Palace for Marc Guehi is moving closer to a positive outcome, however, when you actually read the article, it doesn't feel like there's been any movement at all.

The article is written by Mike McGrath but Edwards has reposted it saying that Newcastle and Palace are edging towards an agreement.

That's not how we read it, in fact the article starts by saying pretty much the exact opposite.

McGrath's report actually provides no update at all

The report states that Newcastle and Crystal Palace are £5 million apart on Guehi's valuation:

"Newcastle United have moved closer to making the statement signing of England centre-back Marc Guehi, with the deal just £5 million away from meeting Crystal Palace’s asking price.

"The relatively small difference between the clubs has raised hopes that one of the biggest deals of the summer can be agreed before the transfer deadline a week on Friday."

That has been the case since last week. It has always been understood that £65 million could get it done as long as the conditions were right. Basically, Newcastle have offered £60m+£5m but the addons were dependent on Newcastle bagging Champions League football, which Crystal Palace weren't willing to risk - they want a more guaranteed £65 million and then they may accept.

Newcastle are preparing to move on

It's strange that it's Luke Edwards providing positivity and we're the ones having to deliver the bad news, it's usually Edwards with his scythe and hood doing his grim reaper bit when itcomes to transfer stories.

There's still a chance that the deal gets done, obviously, but as things stand, there's been no meaningful change.

However, time is running out for Palace to give their definitive response with Newcastle willing to walk away if the deal isn't advanced by this weekend.