Manchester City is intensifying its efforts to sign Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace as Pep Guardiola aims to enhance his defensive lineup with top-tier Premier League talent.
The England defender has become highly sought after in the league, and City believes he could be a long-term fit in Guardiola’s intricate game plan, according to sources close to the transfer market.
Guéhi has risen to the top of Manchester City’s defensive shortlist as they prepare for the next phase of team development.
Despite enjoying significant success recently, Guardiola is keen on revitalizing areas of the squad, particularly defense, where there are concerns regarding depth.
City seeks increased defensive options
With players like John Stones and Nathan Ake facing fitness issues and nearing the twilight of their careers, City’s recruitment team is tasked with finding defenders who offer both immediate contributions and future potential.
Guéhi perfectly embodies this profile. Since his transfer from Chelsea to Crystal Palace, the 25-year-old has transformed into one of the Premier League’s most dependable centre-backs.
He has captained Palace multiple times, demonstrating both leadership and quality. Overall, the defender has accumulated 147 Premier League appearances, proving his experience at the highest level.
These qualities are especially appealing to Guardiola, whose system depends on defenders being adept with the ball and tactically astute.
City faces competition from Liverpool
Liverpool is also closely watching Guéhi as they look to refresh their own defense in the coming seasons.
With Virgil van Dijk now in his thirties and questions surrounding Ibrahima Konaté’s long-term role, the Reds see Guéhi as a foundational piece for their next defensive lineup.
This scenario sets up an intriguing competition between two Premier League giants, both eager to secure a skilled, homegrown defender already proven at the top level.
Additionally, Real Madrid is monitoring his situation and may join the pursuit next year.
Man City has an advantage over Liverpool in the chase for a £65 million Premier League star
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