Manchester City have reportedly agreed a deal in principle to sign Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi in a major January transfer, according to transfer expert Ben Jacobs.
The move is expected to be finalized in the coming days, with personal terms already in place. Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that the 25-year-old defender will miss their upcoming match against Sunderland, signalling the club’s readiness to let him leave before his contract expires this summer.
Guehi, born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, has established himself as one of England’s top defensive prospects, captaining Palace and earning a reputation for leadership and composure at the back.
Despite interest from other top clubs over the years, City have emerged as the frontrunners in the winter window, with reports suggesting Liverpool have no plans to make a bid.
Negotiations over the transfer fee saw City push for a reduction from Palace’s original £35 million asking price. Journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that the clubs have agreed on a figure in the region of £20 million, making it a bargain compared with the premium paid by Liverpool in the summer.
The move is expected to strengthen Pep Guardiola’s injury-hit defense as City chase down Premier League leaders Arsenal, following their January signing of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth for £62.5 million.
Guehi’s arrival would add depth and versatility to City’s backline, giving Guardiola options in central defense amid a congested fixture schedule. Known for his aerial ability, tactical awareness, and leadership qualities, the Ivorian-born defender brings experience and stability to a squad that has struggled with defensive injuries this season.
With both clubs having reached an agreement and Guehi himself having accepted the move, it appears a January switch is imminent.
