Manchester City are emerging as strong contenders to sign Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi this month, following a series of injuries to the club’s key defenders. With Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and John Stones sidelined, City are exploring options to strengthen their backline during the January transfer window.

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Guehi Emerges as Defensive Target

The 25-year-old England centre-back, who has earned 26 international caps since his debut in 2022, has been a long-term target for several top clubs. City’s interest in Guehi has reportedly intensified due to the injury crisis caused by Gvardiol and Dias picking up knocks in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea.

While the exact duration of the injuries is still being assessed, sources close to the club indicate that City’s pursuit of Guehi is progressing rapidly, and a move this month should not be ruled out.

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City Recall Max Alleyne Amid Injury Crisis

To mitigate the defensive shortage, City have recalled promising academy defender Max Alleyne from his loan spell at Championship side Watford. The 20-year-old, son of former England cricketer and Gloucestershire head coach Mark Alleyne, made 17 appearances for Watford before being brought back to bolster Pep Guardiola’s options ahead of the Premier League clash with Brighton.

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Pep Guardiola on Defensive Woes

Following the Chelsea draw, City manager Pep Guardiola expressed concern about his defensive situation:

“It doesn’t look good for Dias and Gvardiol… John Stones is missing for I don’t know how many months… Nathan [Ake], we know he cannot play regularly. It’s the situation—stay strong and we will find a solution. The spirit is there and will be there.”

The comments underline the urgency for City to strengthen their backline as they continue their Premier League campaign.

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Guehi’s Contract Situation

Guehi is out of contract this summer, and it has long been expected that he would leave Selhurst Park on a free transfer. However, City’s injury issues could accelerate a potential move this month.

European heavyweights such as Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Atletico Madrid have also shown interest in Guehi, with the defender eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs from January.

Last summer, Guehi almost joined Liverpool for £35m, but Palace blocked the move during deadline day. Both Liverpool and Manchester City are reportedly keen to secure him either this month or as a free agent at the end of the season. Palace may consider selling their captain in January rather than risk losing him for nothing in the summer.

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Championship Implications and City’s Plans

With City battling multiple defensive absences, the acquisition of Guehi could prove decisive in their title challenge. Strengthening the backline will allow Guardiola to maintain squad depth and competitiveness across Premier League and European fixtures.

Guehi’s leadership as Palace captain, coupled with his international experience, makes him an attractive target not only for Manchester City but for any club seeking defensive reinforcement in the second half of the season.