Image source: cityxtra.co.uk
Manchester City are working to strike an agreement with Crystal Palace for Marc Guehi this month following a defensive injury crisis, with the England international open to joining Pep Guardiola’s side despite preferring to honour his contract until summer.
Manchester City Push for Marc Guehi January Deal as Crystal Palace Talks Progress
Guehi has emerged as a priority target for City after Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol suffered injuries in a 1-1 Premier League draw with Chelsea, leaving Pep Guardiola short of defensive options. The club have recalled academy graduate Max Alleyne from his loan at Watford, with the 20-year-old starting against Brighton and Exeter City in his first week back at the Etihad Stadium.
City executives recognise the need to bolster their backline to sustain their silverware aspirations as they compete on four fronts and challenge Premier League leaders Arsenal for what could be a fifth league title in six seasons. Nathan Ake’s injury record over the last 18 months means Guardiola cannot rely on the 30-year-old to play consistently, while Gvardiol faces four to five months on the sidelines and Dias requires another month of recovery.
John Stones remains unavailable and faces uncertainty over his future at the Etihad Stadium, with recent comments from Guardiola indicating City could part ways with one of the manager’s longest-serving players. Abdukodir Khusanov is expected to play a key role at centre-back during the injury crisis, but City have identified Crystal Palace defender Guehi as their priority January addition.
City are prepared to overcome obstacles to secure Guehi’s arrival from Selhurst Park before the transfer window closes, according to reports. The 25-year-old is set to leave Crystal Palace at the end of his current contract this summer, with Liverpool and Arsenal among clubs interested in signing the England international if he remains at Palace until then.
Guehi is believed to be keen on honouring his contract in south London and leaving after the season ends, but Manchester City are working to convince both player and club that January represents the right time to move. City have begun talks with Palace over a deal and are ready to match other offers, with reports suggesting the Eagles value their captain above the £35 million fee they had agreed with Liverpool last summer before that transfer collapsed.
