Manchester City push for Marc Guehi in January move
Manchester City have stepped up their search for defensive reinforcements, and one of the Premier League’s most sought-after center backs is now firmly on their radar.
Manchester City move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi
Manchester City have made their move for Marc Guehi, with the Crystal Palace captain open to a high-profile switch during the January transfer window.
The reigning champions are already close to agreeing personal terms with the England international and have opened formal talks with Palace over a transfer fee. The London club are holding out for a figure close to £40 million, despite Guehi having just six months left on his contract.
City push hard to beat summer free-agent offers
A January move would see Guehi forgo a lucrative signing-on bonus he could collect by leaving on a free in the summer. However, City are understood to have tabled a substantial proposal, one designed to eclipse any offer he might receive at the end of the season.
At 25, the former Chelsea academy product is seen as a long-term solution at the heart of Pep Guardiola’s defense, and City believe decisive action now could prove crucial.
Palace reconsider stance as interest grows
Palace manager Oliver Glasner blocked a late move to Liverpool last summer, but the club has recently softened its position and is now open to a January sale.
Interest is not limited to England. Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich have all registered their interest in the defender, underlining his growing status across Europe.
With Guehi unwilling to sign a contract extension, this window represents Palace’s final opportunity to secure a significant transfer fee. As part of his 2021 move to Selhurst Park, Chelsea are entitled to 20 percent of any future sale.
Injuries force Guardiola’s hand
City’s pursuit has intensified following serious injuries to Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias, both sustained during the recent draw with Chelsea.
Young defender Max Alleyne has already been recalled from his loan spell at Watford, but Pep Guardiola is keen to add experienced depth as City look to stay in the Premier League title race with Arsenal.
Earlier this month, City also invested £65 million to sign Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, highlighting their aggressive approach in the winter market.
What comes next
Palace are aware that any deal for Guehi will require a replacement to be lined up before giving the green light. Whether he features in Palace’s upcoming league fixture remains uncertain, but behind the scenes, negotiations are gathering pace.
For Manchester City, the message is clear: strengthen now, or risk being left short at a critical point of the season.
