Manchester City have moved decisively to bolster their defensive ranks with the £20million acquisition of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi. The England international has put pen to paper on a substantial five-and-a-half-year contract at the Etihad Stadium.
A Long-Term Defensive Solution
The 25-year-old centre-back arrives as part of a significant January spending spree, following the £62.5m signing of Antoine Semenyo. While not eligible for Tuesday's Champions League fixture against Bodo/Glimt, Guehi will be available for selection in the Premier League this weekend. His signing is viewed as a long-term replacement for John Stones, whose own contract expires in the summer.
City's hierarchy had initially planned to pursue Guehi on a free transfer at the season's end. However, they have opted to act now, stealing a march on rival Premier League clubs. This accelerated move has been prompted by a defensive injury crisis, with Stones, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol all sidelined. Gvardiol is expected to miss much of the campaign with a broken leg.
Guehi's Delight at 'Dream' Move
Expressing his joy at the transfer, Guehi said: 'It's a relief. I am now at the best club in England and part of an unbelievable squad of players. It feels good to be able to say that.' He emphasised his desire to improve, adding: 'I've always been obsessed with getting better... I think this is the perfect place for me to do that.'
The defender also highlighted the club's environment and the impact of the fans, recalling: 'When the stadium's rocking, it's unbelievable. I've been on the end of some losses here and when it's loud, it's loud. I'm really looking forward to being here.' Guehi's move to Manchester comes after a dramatic near-miss last summer, when he was within hours of joining Liverpool for £35m before Palace cancelled the deal.
Strategic Signing Amidst Squad Challenges
City's director of football, Hugo Viana, welcomed the capture, noting the intense competition for the player's signature. 'I am so pleased it was us he chose to join,' Viana stated. 'Marc is strong, has exceptional defensive qualities, is an intelligent reader of the game, and brings passion and energy every time he steps onto the pitch.'
The deal, believed to be worth up to £300,000 a week for the defender, represents a major statement from Pep Guardiola's side, who have not won in their last four league games and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points. Guehi will meet his new teammates after City's European trip, ahead of a crucial Premier League clash with Wolves.
