Arsenal legend Alan Smith believes Marc Guehi’s availability on a free transfer could prove “tempting” for his former club.

The Gunners are reportedly among those contemplating a move for the England international, and speaking to Best Betting Sites UK, Smith said that while there isn’t any real need to reinforce the centre of the defence, he does think Guehi is a “top-class” performer:

“I was a little surprised to hear this, because Arsenal already have good cover for Gabriel and [William] Saliba with [Piero] Hincapie and [Cristhian] Mosquera coming in, plus [Jurrien] Timber can play in the middle.”

“Whether there’s any substance in the rumours I don’t know, but if a top-class centre-back is available on the cheap, it’s always tempting. Other clubs like Man City and Liverpool will be interested too.”

Arsenal have made enquiries for Guehi

Speaking on his YouTube channel earlier this week, reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Mikel Arteta‘s side had been “calling” to be kept informed about the defender’s situation.

Guehi is inside the final 6 months of his contract at Crystal Palace, and he can already speak directly to foreign clubs. His future does appear to lie away from Selhurst Park.

City could make their move in January

As Smith mentions, there are other suitors for Guehi. Arsenal’s title rivals specifically are in need of a centre-half after losing Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias to serious injuries.

There is a possibility that Man City will table a bid for the 25-year-old before the transfer window closes. If that happens, the hopes of the defender moving to the Emirates would be extinguished.

As long as Guehi is on the market, and there is a chance he could become a free agent at the end of the season, the Gunners could still yet make an opportunistic move.

Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here