Man City Backed to Agree Marc Guehi Swap Deal - 'I Would Expect It to Go Through'

Manchester City are increasingly confident about securing Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi in a potential January swap deal, according to former Aston Villa chief executive Keith Wyness. The 25-year-old England international is in the final six months of his contract and has informed Palace he intends to leave at the end of the season, rejecting a new deal offer.[1][4]

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Wyness revealed City could include a player in the deal to sweeten negotiations, making a mid-season exit viable despite Palace's reluctance to sell cheaply. "I would expect it to go through," Wyness stated, highlighting City's willingness to act now rather than wait for Guehi's free-agent status in summer 2026.[5]

City's interest stems from a defensive injury crisis, with Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and John Stones sidelined, pushing Pep Guardiola to bolster options ahead of the World Cup year. Sources indicate City view a £35m fee—similar to Liverpool's collapsed summer bid—as acceptable, but personal terms and a signing-on fee temptation remain hurdles.[2][3]

Palace manager Oliver Glasner conceded a "massive offer" from City could see Guehi depart if it meets the club's valuation threshold, emphasizing squad balance: "If a player feels too good for a club, it is better to sell him."[4] Guehi, a former Chelsea youth product, has attracted widespread attention from Liverpool, Arsenal, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and others, but City's active January pursuit gives them an edge.[1][2][3]

While experts like analyst McInerney doubt a deal, citing Guehi's leverage for a lucrative free transfer and European suitors, City's project—featuring Guardiola, Erling Haaland, and title contention—is a major draw. Palace recently signed Antoine Semenyo, potentially opening swap possibilities, as City weigh offsetting Guehi's summer financial gains with immediate playing time.[2][3][6]

The race remains open, but with formal talks looming, a breakthrough could materialize soon, transforming City's backline before the transfer window closes.[1][2]