Marc Guehi ‘warming’ to £70m Newcastle United move as unlikely transfer breakthrough emerges

Speculation over the 46-year-old’s future had emerged given the vacant England hot seat. Howe gave ambiguous answers to the media over the summer following Gareth Southgate’s resignation.

Talk about his future quietened as Lee Carsley took temporary charge of the national team - and appeared destined for the permanent gig. The Telegraph also reported last week that Howe was committed and happy at Newcastle, with an England approach unlikely.

However, a shock defeat to Greece and bizarre post-match comments from Carsley reignited talk about the England job. That was until the FA confirmed former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel on an 18-month contract. Watch on Shots! Geordie Journos reflect on Newcastle United takeover - three years on

The German became England’s third foreign-born manager and will lead the Three Lions into the 2026 World Cup. With Howe’s future now cemented, Newcastle have been given an unlikely transfer advantage.

GiveMeSport claim Guehi was unsure about United’s long-term project given the summer uncertainty over Howe’s position. The Toon boss was, after all, the one who earmarked Guehi as his No.1 transfer target.

Reports have suggested Newcastle could move for the centre-back again in January with a cut-price offer. Crystal Palace are in a difficult position as Guehi enters the final 18 months of his contract.

Eagles chairman Steve Parish demanded “superstar money” for the England international, with the Magpies thought to have offered around £70million. Liverpool are another club linked with Guehi after losing Joel Matip earlier this year.

An early breakthrough in the transfer market will be a huge boost to Newcastle - and sporting director Paul Mitchell - following a lean summer window. Tuchel's appointment as Three Lions boss could provide the unexpected silver bullet Toon chiefs need to get the deal over the line.