Marc Guehi looks set to become a major talking point again as the transfer window enters its final stretch. The Crystal Palace defender was at the centre of deadline-day drama last time around, through little fault of his own.
The England centre-back was given permission to undergo a medical with Liverpool, only for the move to collapse at the eleventh hour when Palace failed to secure a replacement in time. Since then, Guehi has still not committed to a new contract at Selhurst Park, and with his current deal expiring at the end of the season, that situation remains unchanged.
Guehi is expected to push for a high-profile move and a significant wage increase, but the key question is whether that happens now or if he waits until the summer. Until recently, the defender had been content to see out the season and leave on a free transfer, which would strengthen his position in contract talks. Liverpool and Arsenal have both been monitoring him with a view to a summer swoop, but they may face competition sooner than expected.
Fabrizio Romano has reported that Manchester City are preparing to step up their interest next week. City are willing to pay a fee to Palace to complete a deal in this window, but only if Guehi gives the green light. Romano explained that the player’s preference has always been a summer move, with Liverpool pushing hard and Arsenal also showing strong interest, while Bayern Munich held talks before deciding to extend Dayot Upamecano’s contract. City, however, are now ready to make a serious contract offer and move quickly if Guehi agrees.
For Palace, the situation is complicated by the possibility of letting their captain leave without any compensation. The club already turned down substantial offers last summer, accepting the risk of losing him for nothing in order to protect their squad. With no ready-made replacement lined up, selling Guehi now could severely damage their campaign.
The market for reliable centre-backs is thin, particularly in January, and prices are high. City are also unlikely to table a large bid given Guehi’s contract situation, leaving Palace with a difficult call. There is also the wider context to consider, as the club is keen to persuade Oliver Glasner to extend his own contract, which also expires in the summer. Losing a key figure like Guehi mid-season could make that task even harder.