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Arsenal are ready to enter the race for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi this month, potentially hijacking Manchester City’s move for the England defender who is in the final months of his contract at Selhurst Park.
Arsenal Prepared to Challenge Manchester City for Crystal Palace Captain Marc Guehi
Manchester City have emerged as red-hot favourites to sign Guehi this January following injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol. Reports on Thursday claimed City and Guehi already have a verbal agreement over personal terms, though the club still needs to settle on a transfer fee with Crystal Palace for the centre-back.
However, Arsenal are described as ready to enter the race for what is being called a no-brainer transfer. The Gunners remain big admirers of the 24-year-old defender, though it remains to be seen whether Arsenal would be willing to make a bid this month or bide their time until summer when Guehi’s contract expires and he becomes available as a free agent.
Manchester City’s pursuit faces two huge obstacles that could derail their January move. Palace are expected to demand around £40 million for their captain due to City’s injury crisis and the club’s involvement in multiple competitions this season. Additionally, any club attempting a deal now must compete with the prospect that Guehi could command a significantly bigger contract in the summer as a free agent.
The financial implications mean City would have to pay both huge wages and a substantial transfer fee, creating uncertainty over whether they will complete the deal. Liverpool previously agreed a £35 million deal for Guehi last summer, but Palace pulled the plug on deadline day as they could not secure a suitable replacement in time, leaving the defender at Selhurst Park.
There will be no shortage of takers among Europe’s top clubs should Guehi decide to remain at Palace for the final six months of his contract before leaving for free. The England international is considered one of the best centre-backs in Europe following fantastic performances for both club and country over the past two years.
