Manchester City are poised to complete a significant defensive signing, having agreed a deal to bring England international Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. The move, which is now in its final stages, represents a major coup for the Premier League champions.
City Win Transfer Battle for Key Defender
Pep Guardiola's side has successfully seen off strong competition from top-flight rivals Arsenal and Liverpool to secure Guehi's signature. Personal terms between the player and Manchester City are already settled, clearing the final major hurdle for the transfer. This comes just four months after a proposed £35 million deadline-day switch to Liverpool collapsed, when Palace failed to find a suitable replacement in time.
Defensive Reinforcements Arrive Amid Injury Crisis
The timing of the transfer is critical for City, who are currently grappling with a defensive injury crisis. Key centre-backs Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol are both sidelined, leaving a considerable gap in Guardiola's back line. Guehi's arrival, confirmed to be progressing on Friday 16 January 2026, provides immediate and experienced reinforcement.
The Crystal Palace captain has already been removed from his current club's plans for their imminent match against Sunderland, as his exit from Selhurst Park advances. His absence from the travelling squad underscores how close the deal is to completion.
Financial Implications and Squad Impact
This acquisition is set to take Manchester City's spending in the transfer window close to the half-a-billion-pound mark, highlighting their continued financial power in the market. For Guehi, the move represents a step up to a club consistently challenging for the highest honours, both domestically and in Europe.
For Crystal Palace, losing their captain and defensive stalwart is a significant blow, but the substantial fee provides funds for squad rebuilding. For the Premier League title race, City's strengthening at the back could prove a decisive factor as they aim to outlast their rivals in the season's final months.
