Manchester City to Make January Bid for Marc Guehi

Manchester City are poised to make a decisive move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi in the January transfer window, amid a deepening defensive injury crisis at the Etihad Stadium. The 25-year-old England international, whose contract expires in June 2026, has informed Palace of his intention to leave at the end of the season, sparking intense speculation about his next destination[1][2][3].

City's interest stems from injuries to key centre-backs Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and John Stones, leaving Pep Guardiola short on options. Experts praise Guehi's qualities: "Twenty-five years old, loads of experience, England international, very mature, a leader, incredibly composed, technically excellent, two-footed, a crisp passer, and an aggressive, physical centre-back," says City expert Steven McInerney[1]. ESPN scout Tor-Kristian Karlsen notes his pace, positioning, and understated passing make him a strong fit for City's system, where centre-backs must recover speed and stay composed under pressure[4].

Reports indicate City will clarify their stance this week, potentially tabling an offer too good for Palace to refuse, despite Guehi's ability to leave as a free agent in summer[2][5]. Palace boss Oliver Glasner believes Guehi will stay, but admits a "massive" bid with five months left could change that[2]. A previous £35m move to Liverpool collapsed last summer[1].

However, challenges loom. McInerney doubts a January deal, suggesting Guehi might wait for free-agent interest from Europe's elite, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and PSG[1]. Bayern hold an edge, with sporting director Max Eberl pushing for a pre-contract; Footmercato claims Guehi prefers a move to Germany[2][4]. Sky Sports reports no offer has materialized yet[2].

Should City secure Guehi now, he could be an immediate starter in a World Cup year, bolstering their title defense. Yet, with top clubs circling, the race intensifies as January unfolds[3][4].