Image source: football365.com
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi is reportedly favouring a free transfer in the summer despite interest from Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal, with Palace demanding between £35-40 million for any January departure according to German journalist Florian Plettenberg.
Marc Guehi ‘Favouring’ Free Summer Transfer Despite Manchester City Interest
The England centre-back is in the final months of his Crystal Palace contract and remains a target for several elite clubs after a proposed £35 million move to Liverpool collapsed on summer deadline day. Palace were unable to secure a suitable replacement in time, leaving Guehi available for potential suitors in January or as a free agent next summer.
Manchester City are considering whether to submit an offer for Guehi this month as they seek defensive reinforcements without Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol. However, sources suggest City have yet to receive any indication that Guehi is open to a move to the Etihad, with fears they could be rejected if they make an approach.
City are reportedly prepared to offer around £25 million for Guehi if given encouragement, while also exploring creative structures including potential swap deals to bridge the valuation gap with Palace’s asking price. The club would be willing to offer wages in the region of £250,000 per week, which would place Guehi among City’s top earners.
Sources close to Guehi remain sceptical that he will agree to a move during the current transfer window, with the possibility of moving as a free agent described as his preference. Liverpool, Arsenal and Bayern Munich are all interested in summer moves, with Liverpool having identified Guehi as a priority after their failed summer pursuit.
The 25-year-old defender would command significant interest as a free agent, allowing him greater control over his next destination while avoiding the need for clubs to meet Palace’s substantial January valuation for a player entering the final months of his contract.
