The January transfer window is heating up with a major battle for one of England's most sought-after defenders. Manchester City have emerged as the clear frontrunners to sign Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi this month, while Premier League rivals Arsenal and Liverpool are set to bide their time until the summer.
City's Winter Window Advantage
According to reports, Pep Guardiola's side are ready to make a concrete move for the 25-year-old centre-back before the transfer deadline. This proactive approach gives them a significant edge. The key factor is that Guehi's contract at Selhurst Park expires in less than six months, meaning he can leave for free in July. Crystal Palace are therefore facing their final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper, with a figure around £35million being referenced from a failed summer move.
Both Arsenal and Liverpool hold long-term interest in the former Chelsea academy product. However, financial considerations are dictating their strategy. Liverpool have reportedly deemed a January deal 'unrealistic' due to the substantial upfront cost, which would include a transfer fee plus a major signing-on bonus for the player. Similarly, Arsenal are also inclined to wait until Guehi becomes a free agent in the summer, avoiding a mid-season outlay.
Palace's Last Chance and City's Intent
This collective hesitation from the Gunners and Reds has effectively cleared the path for Manchester City to negotiate unimpeded. The Premier League champions have identified central defence as a priority area, having recently completed the signing of Antoine Semenyo for £62.5million. It is claimed that City are 'intent' on securing Guehi now and are prepared to match any rival offers to get their man.
For Crystal Palace, this window represents the last realistic chance to receive a windfall for their captain, following a dramatic late collapse in a proposed move to Liverpool last summer. City's willingness to act now could be decisive in the race for his signature.
Internal Solutions and Future Plans
While pursuing Guehi, Manchester City have also bolstered their defensive options from within. The club recalled young defender Max Alleyne, 20, from a loan spell at Watford. Alleyne has impressed, starting consecutive games and even scoring in City's 10-1 FA Cup demolition of Exeter City.
Looking ahead, Liverpool's summer plans are expected to include a focus on central defenders, especially with the future of Ibrahima Konate uncertain. This sets the stage for a potential renewed three-way tussle for Marc Guehi in a few months' time, but for now, Manchester City hold all the cards in the January market.
