Manchester City are weighing up a shock January move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, with the Premier League champions forced into the market following a defensive injury crisis that threatens to derail their title defence.
According to a report from The Guardian, Pep Guardiola’s side have identified Guehi as the primary target to plug the gap left by significant injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol. The defensive duo were both withdrawn during the festive period, leaving City’s backline dangerously thin as they compete on three fronts.
While City typically prefer to do their major business in the summer, the severity of the situation has forced a rethink at the Etihad. With Nathan Ake also managing fitness issues, the club’s hierarchy is reportedly preparing to test Crystal Palace’s resolve with a substantial winter bid.
The Injury Nightmare
The timing could not be worse for City. Medical reports confirmed yesterday that Dias faces up to six weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring tear, while Gvardiol’s knee issue is expected to keep him out until March. This leaves Manuel Akanji and an increasingly fragile John Stones as the only senior centre-backs available for a crucial run of fixtures.
Sources suggest that Guardiola views Guehi as a "plug-and-play" solution. The 25-year-old is Premier League proven, comfortable on the ball, and possesses the leadership qualities that City value highly. Unlike a foreign import who might need time to adapt, Guehi could ostensibly slot straight into the starting XI for next week's clash against Arsenal.
Palace's Stance and The Fee
Prising Guehi away from Selhurst Park mid-season will be an expensive exercise. The England international remains the cornerstone of the Eagles' defence, and losing him in January would be a massive blow to Oliver Glasner’s plans. However, every player has a price.
It is understood that Palace may demand a fee in excess of £65 million to consider a sale, a figure inflated by the "English premium" and City’s desperate circumstances. City have the financial muscle to meet such an asking price, but they will be wary of overpaying for what effectively starts as a reactive signing.
Fans keeping an eye on the market can track the movement on the Marc Guehi player profile to see if the valuation shifts in the coming days.
Tactical Fit
From a footballing perspective, the move makes perfect sense. Guehi has consistently ranked among the league's best for interceptions and pass completion under pressure—metrics that align perfectly with Guardiola’s requirements. His ability to play on the left side of central defence also makes him a natural deputy for Gvardiol.
There is also the question of the player's ambition. While loyal to Palace, the opportunity to challenge for the Champions League and Premier League titles immediately may be too good to turn down. If City formalise their interest, personal terms are not expected to be a hurdle.
Speculation is already heating up in the betting markets. You can check the latest odds on the January transfer window specials to see where the money is going regarding City's next signing.
The Domino Effect
If Guehi does move, it could trigger a chain reaction in the market. Palace would need an immediate replacement, with some reports linking them to Wolfsburg’s Maxence Lacroix as a potential successor. Furthermore, a big-money move for Guehi might impact City’s summer budget, potentially shelving plans for other targets.
For now, all eyes are on the Etihad. Will they stick with their depleted squad and trust the academy, or will they ruthlessly flex their financial power to solve a temporary problem with a permanent world-class solution?
See more details on the Manchester City club hub as this story develops.
What Happens Next?
City are expected to conduct final medical assessments on Dias and Gvardiol within the next 48 hours. If the prognosis is confirmed as severe, an official opening bid for Guehi could land on Steve Parish’s desk before the weekend. Palace fans should brace themselves for a nervous few weeks.