Manchester City are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, with signs that talks are now moving forward in earnest.
After weeks of speculation, this appears to be the strongest indication yet that City are serious about landing the England international. What began as an exploration of a possible January move has now developed into a more concrete push as the club look to address growing problems at the back.
Pep Guardiola’s squad has been hit hard by defensive injuries, with Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol and John Stones all sidelined, while there are ongoing doubts about Nathan Aké’s ability to cope with the demands of a congested schedule. City recalled Max Alleyne from his loan spell at Watford as cover, but despite his promising early performances, the feeling internally is that a proven senior defender is needed both for the remainder of the season and beyond.
Earlier reports suggested Guehi was prepared to see out his contract at Selhurst Park and depart on a free transfer in the summer, a scenario that could have earned him a sizeable signing-on bonus. City were initially unwilling to pay over the odds in January, while Palace made it clear that only a very substantial bid would tempt them into selling their skipper midway through the campaign.
That stance now appears to have softened. According to Sky Germany reporters Florian Plettenberg and Patrick Berger, City are preparing to lodge an official offer worth around £30 million for Guehi. Personal terms are not believed to be a stumbling block, and there is confidence that an agreement between the two clubs can be reached, which could allow the deal to progress swiftly.
Bayern Munich, who have tracked the defender for some time, are now thought to be effectively out of the running despite renewed contact over his availability.
Fabrizio Romano has since confirmed that City have submitted an offer, while The Times’ Gary Jacob reports that discussions over personal terms are close to being finalised. It is understood that City are willing to match or exceed the financial benefits Guehi could have secured by leaving as a free agent in the summer, while also fending off interest from elsewhere.
These developments follow Romano’s earlier claim that City had already made a significant approach, presenting Guehi with a strong contract proposal and putting themselves in position to move formally.
From a footballing perspective, Guehi would offer Guardiola an instant answer to his defensive issues. He is Premier League-tested, experienced at international level, comfortable with responsibility and capable of adapting quickly to the demands of a title-chasing side.
Attention now turns to Crystal Palace’s response to City’s bid. If talks progress as expected, the transfer could be wrapped up quickly, potentially making Guehi City’s second major January signing after the arrival of Antoine Semenyo.