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Stuart Pearce has urged Manchester City to make a strong move to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi this summer, highlighting the club’s current vulnerability in central defense. Pearce, a former England defender, expressed concern about City’s aging and injury-prone centre-backs—Manuel Akanji, John Stones, and Nathan Ake—and believes Guehi could address this “Achilles heel” in Pep Guardiola’s squad. Despite City’s recent signings in other positions, their central defense remains a priority area for strengthening, especially to replicate the solid defensive foundation that helped them win the Champions League a few seasons ago.
Guehi, aged 25, is regarded as an intelligent and consistent defender with strong game-reading abilities, which is why Liverpool are also keen on securing him. Pearce has previously recommended Liverpool pursue the Crystal Palace star, emphasizing that Guehi would complement Liverpool’s existing centre-backs, Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk, to solidify their defensive line. Guehi’s qualities in counterattacking situations and his low-maintenance nature make him a valuable asset for teams aiming to control possession and defend effectively.
Liverpool’s interest in Guehi is motivated by their need to cover for departures such as Jarell Quansah and the uncertain futures of senior defenders, alongside meeting homegrown player criteria. Estimates suggest a transfer fee in the region of £40-50 million, reflecting Guehi’s Premier League experience and potential to enter his prime years. While Crystal Palace is expected to resist selling an important player, the allure of Champions League football and regular playtime might persuade Guehi to consider a move.
Overall, Pearce’s advice underscores Guehi as a crucial defensive signing target this window, both for Manchester City—who need to bolster their defensive depth—and Liverpool, who seek to reinforce their backline for sustained competitiveness in domestic and European competitions.
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