Manchester City have moved swiftly to secure a cut-price deal for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, with a fee that could reach £30 million agreed between the clubs.
Defensive Crisis Forces City's Hand
The Premier League champions have fast-tracked their pursuit of the 25-year-old England international amid a significant injury crisis in defence. Key players John Stones, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol are all currently sidelined, forcing Pep Guardiola's hand in the January market.
Guehi's situation at Selhurst Park made a transfer highly likely. The centre-back's contract was due to expire in June 2026, and he had already informed Palace earlier this season that he would not be signing a new deal. This meant he could have left for free in the summer, making City's winter move a financially prudent one.
Glasner Confirms Deal in 'Final Stages'
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner all but confirmed the transfer ahead of his side's trip to Sunderland. "My latest understanding is the deal for Marc is in the final stages," Glasner stated at his press conference. "The result is Marc doesn't play tomorrow for us."
The Austrian coach acknowledged the reality of modern football, adding: "Every player, depending on their contract situation, there is a price where the club say they want to do it. When a player says they want to move, a deal happens. It looks like it happens now."
While personal terms and a medical are still to be completed, neither is anticipated to be a stumbling block. If finalised swiftly, Guehi could even be available for City's Champions League clash with Bodo/Glimt on Tuesday.
Guardiola's Tight-Lipped Response
When quizzed about the potential signing at his own pre-match press conference before the Manchester derby, Pep Guardiola remained coy. The City boss simply told reporters he had 'nothing to say' on the matter.
He did, however, elaborate on the defensive injury woes plaguing his squad. "Without John, without Ruben, without Josko, we are in a difficult situation for a long period," Guardiola admitted. "Ruben will be back soon, John hopefully, we will see."
The injury crisis prompted City to recall young defender Max Alleyne from his season-long loan at Watford last week. The 20-year-old has started the club's last two matches.
This move represents a significant step in Guehi's career, returning him to the elite level after his successful spell at Palace, which followed his departure from Chelsea's academy. It also marks a notable piece of business for City, who have secured a proven Premier League defender and current England international for a reduced fee just months after Liverpool showed serious interest.
