Manchester City agree £20m deal to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace

Manchester City have reached an agreement in principle with **Crystal Palace to sign captain Marc Guehi in the January transfer window for around £20 million (about KES 3.47 billion). The move addresses a growing defensive crisis at the defending Premier League champions amid key injuries. 

Defensive reinforcements amid injury issues

City’s pursuit of Guehi has accelerated after a series of injuries to senior defenders, leaving manager Pep Guardiola short of options at the back. The England international centre-back, aged 25, has been identified as an immediate solution to reinforce the squad’s defensive depth. 

Transfer details and contract situation

• Fee: The clubs have agreed a deal in the region of £20 million, though final structures including add-ons and sell-on percentages are expected to be confirmed. 

• Contract: Guehi is reported to be finalising personal terms with Manchester City and is expected to sign a long-term contract upon completion of the transfer. 

• Final stages: Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that Guehi is in the final stages of a move away from Selhurst Park and that he will not feature in Palace’s upcoming Premier League match against Sunderland. 

Outmaneuvering rivals

Guehi’s contract at Crystal Palace was due to expire in the summer, making him a free agent if he had waited, and clubs including Liverpool, Arsenal, Bayern Munich and others had previously shown interest in signing him. Despite that, City have moved decisively to secure his services early, ensuring reinforcements during a critical phase of the season rather than waiting until the summer. 

What this means for Manchester City

The capture of Guehi provides City with leadership and Premier League experience in central defence at a moment when injuries have depleted Guardiola’s options. Strengthening the backline mid-season may prove decisive in maintaining their title challenge and competitive edge in domestic and European competitions.