The January transfer window could be shaping up favourably for Premier League leaders Arsenal, with title rivals Manchester City encountering a significant defensive headache that may play into the Gunners' hands.
City's Defensive Crisis Offers Arsenal Advantage
Manchester City's pursuit of Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi has emerged as a major subplot this January, a situation that could indirectly benefit Mikel Arteta's side. According to reports from the BBC, City are actively exploring a move for the Palace captain following a serious injury to their own defender, Josko Gvardiol.
This development arrives as Arsenal sit six points clear at the summit of the Premier League, having extended their lead after a dramatic weekend. A Declan Rice double secured a 3-2 win over Bournemouth, while Chelsea's late equaliser against City at the Etihad Stadium further aided the Gunners' cause.
The potential loss of Gvardiol for much of the season, coupled with a fitness concern for Ruben Dias, leaves Pep Guardiola's squad looking unusually light at the back. Securing a player of Guehi's calibre this month would be a logical step, but Palace manager Oliver Glasner has been unequivocal about his intentions.
Palace's Stance on Guehi Provides Key Boost
When directly questioned about Guehi's future this January, Glasner stated bluntly: "Of course we want to keep everyone." This echoed his clear update from the previous week, where he indicated he believed Guehi would stay at Selhurst Park until at least the end of the season.
The Eagles, who resisted Liverpool's interest last summer, are seemingly prepared to risk losing the 23-year-old on a free transfer when his contract expires rather than sanction a mid-season sale. For Arsenal, the prospect of City being unable to reinforce their rearguard with a top-tier target like Guehi represents a tangible boost to their own championship aspirations.
Any failure by City to strengthen defensively during a congested fixture schedule could prove pivotal in the title race.
Gunners Maintain Interest in Milan Prospect Bartesaghi
Meanwhile, Arsenal's own recruitment team remains active. The club continues to be linked with a move for AC Milan's versatile young defender, Davide Bartesaghi.
Italian outlet Quotidiano Sport reports that the Gunners are "closely following" the 20-year-old Italian, who can operate as a left wing-back or on the left side of a back three. However, any deal this month appears complicated.
Milan, aware of interest from other European giants including Manchester City and Real Madrid, are keen to secure Bartesaghi's long-term future. Talks are reportedly underway to triple his salary with a new contract. As an academy graduate, the player's preference is likely to remain at the San Siro, though external interest strengthens his bargaining position.
It is claimed the Serie A side would demand a fee in the region of €45 million (approximately £39 million) to consider a sale during the current window, a significant sum for a player with limited top-flight experience.
As the midweek fixtures approach, with Arsenal hosting Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium, the transfer machinations behind the scenes add another fascinating layer to an already compelling Premier League title battle.
