Palace Chase PL Rival Defender to Replace Marc Guehi

Brentford Centre-back Set for Selhurst Park?

It's all action at Selhurst Park this deadline day as Oliver Glasner looks to refresh his squad in attack with striker Jean-Phllipe Mateta looking set for AC Milan, but another area where the Eagles need to address before the deadline is in the centre of defence with former captain Marc Guehi now at Manchester City.

And according to reports, a name that they have identified is close to home in the Premier League and London, with Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock reportedly being eyed by the Eagles for a deadline day move according to Football Insider correspondent Pete O'Rouke.

Understand Crystal Palace are chasing Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock before the close of the transfer window. #CPFC #BrentfordFC #DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/FxZrL3DGOU

— Pete O'Rourke (@SportsPeteO) February 2, 2026

Could Pinnock replace Guehi?

The departure of Guehi has left a strong hole in the heart of the Palace defence which is in major need of filling before the window shuts, and Pinnock would represent a smart short-term solution. The Jamaican international has been ever-present for Brentford, making over 200 appearances for the club since 2019 and was part of the squad that earned promotion to the Premier League, and has handled the step up strongly.

More clearances and aerial duels won than any other @premierleague player in 2023

Our centre-back, Ethan Pinnock 👏🇯🇲 pic.twitter.com/euvRpAqGoJ

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) January 3, 2024

Pinnock's Premier League experience would represnet a low-risk addition due to the lack of adaptation to the enviroment of the English top flight. However, the defender has struggled for playing-time this season, making just six appearences in all competitions, resulting in 470 minutes of action. With Keith Andrews seemingly favouring a pairing of Nathan Collins and Kristoffer Ajer. Despite that, Pinnock has impressed in past Premier League campagins for Brentford and would be a solid addition to the Palace backline if they get it over the line before 7pm tonight.