The January transfer window is heating up as Arsenal prepare to join the race for Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi, while Manchester City remain confident they will beat several Premier League rivals to his signature.

According to reports, the 25-year-old centre-back has emerged as one of the most in-demand defenders in English football, with top clubs monitoring his situation closely as Palace weigh up their options.

Arsenal Target Guehi to Strengthen Defensive Depth

Arsenal are reportedly ready to make their move for Marc Guehi, identifying the England international as a key defensive target as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his squad for the second half of the season.

The Gunners have been impressed by Guehi’s leadership, composure in possession and Premier League experience, seeing him as a player capable of competing immediately for a starting role while also offering long-term value.

However, Arsenal face stiff competition, with Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham all monitoring developments closely.

Manchester City Confident of Beating Rivals to Guehi Deal

Despite Arsenal’s interest, Manchester City are said to be confident they will secure Guehi’s signature in the coming days, potentially beating rivals Liverpool and Tottenham to the deal.

Pep Guardiola is understood to view the Crystal Palace captain as an ideal fit for City’s possession-based system, with his ability to play out from the back and read the game highly valued at the Etihad Stadium.

City’s confidence suggests negotiations may already be at an advanced stage, though no official agreement has yet been confirmed.

Tottenham Agree Personal Terms with Brazilian Prospect Souza

Elsewhere, Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly agreed personal terms with Souza, the highly rated 19-year-old left-back from Brazilian club Santos.

The teenager is considered one of Brazil’s most promising defensive talents and could be set for a move to the Premier League, pending agreement between the two clubs. Spurs see Souza as a long-term investment rather than an immediate first-team starter.

Wolves Refuse to Sell Mateus Mane Amid January Interest

Wolverhampton Wanderers are determined to keep hold of Mateus Mane, with the club insisting the 18-year-old England youth international is not for sale at any price during the current transfer window.

Mane is highly rated at Molineux and seen as a key part of Wolves’ future plans, with the club unwilling to entertain offers despite growing interest.

Omar Marmoush Committed to Manchester City Stay

Egypt forward Omar Marmoush, 26, has no intention of leaving Manchester City in January and is instead focused on fighting for his place in Guardiola’s squad.

Despite speculation linking him with a potential move, Marmoush is said to be committed to proving himself at the Etihad and contributing during the second half of the season.

Real Madrid Monitor Schlotterbeck as Bayern Extend Upamecano

Real Madrid are stepping up their interest in Borussia Dortmund and Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck, 26, as uncertainty surrounds their long-term defensive options.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich are expected to secure the future of Dayot Upamecano, with the France international set to sign a contract extension, potentially ruling him out as a Real Madrid target.

Manchester City Eye Brentford Full-Back Kayode

Manchester City are also tracking Michael Kayode, the 21-year-old Brentford and Italy Under-21 right-back, as they explore options to strengthen their defensive depth.

Kayode’s athleticism and versatility have impressed scouts, though any move is likely to depend on Brentford’s willingness to sell mid-season.

Chelsea and PSG Linked With Rudiger Return

Real Madrid are reportedly open to selling Antonio Rudiger in January for around €10m (£9m), with Chelsea and Paris St-Germain both linked with a move for the 32-year-old Germany international.

Rudiger’s contract at the Bernabeu expires in the summer, making a winter transfer a realistic option if suitable offers arrive.

Leeds Linked With Union Berlin Defender Doekhi

Union Berlin centre-back Danilho Doekhi, 27, is said to be keen on a move to Leeds United, where he could work under manager Daniel Farke.

Leeds are believed to be exploring defensive reinforcements as they push for promotion, and Doekhi’s experience could prove valuable.

Aston Villa Secure Deal for Teenage Forward Madjo

Finally, Aston Villa have agreed a £10m deal for 16-year-old Metz and Luxembourg forward Brian Madjo, highlighting the club’s continued focus on recruiting elite young talent for the future.