Marc Guehi and Ethan Nwaneri offered Arsenal transfer hope after subtle rule change

Marc Guehi's dream of winning a second successive FA Cup could still be on, as he continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal after his Crystal Palace side were knocked out on Saturday

Marc Guehi's FA Cup campaign could still be alive if he makes the move to Arsenal this month, despite featuring for Crystal Palace during their shock defeat against Macclesfield.

The 26-year-old captained the Eagles for the trip to the National League North side on Saturday. However, Guehi was unable to prevent Palace from suffering a surprise 2-1 loss against the Silkmen.

And his presence in Oliver Glasner's XI caused concern from Arsenal fans over his availability in the FA Cup should he move in the transfer window. Historically, FA Cup rules prevented players from representing more than one club in the competition during a single season. Several supporters were therefore worried that Guehi would be 'cup-tied' if he were to join the Gunners, but were unaware of an amended rule change for the tournament this year.

The previous rule simply read: "A player shall only play for one club in the competition during the same season".

But the new rule, which came into effect at the start of the season, says: "Save that a player that has played for one club in the qualifying competition and/or the competition proper may play for a maximum of one other club in the competition [roper (but may only play for a maximum of one club in any given round of the competition)."

In short, the amendment allows for players to represent more than one club in the competition, as long as it is not in the same round. That prospect, however, is unlikely given that replays have been scrapped.

Guehi is among those that could benefit from the little-known rule change, should he secure a transfer this month. If he were to join Arsenal, he would be able to feature from the fourth round on.

It was reported last week that Arsenal were monitoring Guehi's current situation ahead of a potential move. Manchester City and Liverpool are among the others interested in the England international, who is set to become a free agent in the summer when his Palace contract expires.

Others that could profit from the rule change are the likes of Ethan Nwaneri, who started for the Gunners in the third round against Portsmouth on Sunday but has been linked with a loan move in January.

Chelsea, who progressed into the FA Cup fourth round with a convincing 5-1 win at Charlton on Saturday, are interested in a move for Nwaneri with the teenager struggling for regular game time at the Emirates Stadium.