Man City Lead Race for Marc Guehi Following Major Player Talks

‎Marc Guehi’s potential January move to Manchester City has gathered pace after a significant approach was made to the defender’s representatives. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the England centre-back is now closer to an Etihad Stadium switch as his Crystal Palace contract continues to wind down.

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Marc Guehi is edging closer to a January switch to Manchester City after a major contract proposal to his camp, with Crystal Palace negotiations expected next.

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‎The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with an exit since the summer of 2025, when Liverpool attempted to secure his signature with a substantial offer. Palace resisted those advances despite knowing their captain was entering the final year of his contract, with no renewal agreed.

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‎As things stand, Guehi is due to become a free agent at the end of the season. However, renewed interest in the winter transfer window could see him depart before that point. While Liverpool have maintained an interest, Manchester City have now taken the lead in negotiations.

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‎Pep Guardiola is keen to bolster his defensive options after injuries to Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Josko Gvardiol disrupted City’s campaign. Guehi is viewed as an ideal acquisition, offering both immediate quality and long-term value.

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‎City have already tabled personal terms for the defender and are preparing to open formal talks with Palace. It has been suggested that an offer in the region of £30 million ($40m) could be submitted to secure an agreement between the clubs.

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‎Romano confirmed the development on social media, stating that City had advanced in negotiations after making a major approach in the last 12 hours, with a contract proposal delivered and readiness shown to negotiate with Crystal Palace as the deal moves closer.

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‎Despite Palace’s reluctance to part ways with their influential skipper—fresh from FA Cup success last season and European competition this term—the club may be forced into a decision. Manager Oliver Glasner has acknowledged that circumstances could override sporting considerations.

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‎Glasner admitted that if a substantial offer arrives and Guehi expresses a desire to leave, the transfer would go through. He stressed that while the sporting value of keeping the defender is clear, financial realities may eventually take precedence.

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‎The Palace boss also referenced widespread interest from clubs including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Inter, Bayern Munich, and Atletico Madrid, noting that Guehi can discuss pre-contract terms with foreign clubs.

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‎He explained that the club previously rejected multiple offers in the summer as they targeted a successful campaign and Community Shield glory, with bids failing to meet their valuation threshold.

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‎Now, with Guehi’s contract running down, Palace’s asking price has reduced, and City appear willing to meet it. With fixtures piling up across four competitions, City are eager to finalize the deal swiftly and integrate Guehi into their squad.