Manchester City are closely monitoring Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi as they consider strengthening their backline during the January transfer window, with multiple senior defenders now sidelined.
Sources have confirmed to BBC Sport that City’s interest in Guehi has intensified in recent days following injuries to both Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias, who were forced off during Sunday’s 2–2 draw with Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium. With John Stones also out, Pep Guardiola now faces a serious shortage in central defence.
The club is awaiting full medical assessments on Gvardiol and Dias before making a final decision, but a January move for Guehi, 25, is under active consideration. The England international has been a standout performer for Palace since joining from Chelsea in 2021, and has earned 26 caps for his country since his debut in 2022.
Guehi, a composed and athletic centre-back with leadership qualities, is viewed as a player who can slot into Guardiola’s system with minimal adaptation. His performances under Oliver Glasner and previously Patrick Vieira have made him one of the most reliable defenders outside the Premier League’s traditional top six.
Palace are unlikely to let their captain go easily, especially mid-season, but a significant offer from City could test their resolve.
In the meantime, City have taken a precautionary measure by recalling 20-year-old defender Max Alleyne from his loan spell at Watford. Alleyne, the son of former England cricketer Mark Alleyne, featured 17 times for the Championship side and could now be drafted into City’s senior squad for Wednesday’s Premier League fixture against Brighton.
As City continue to push in both domestic and European competitions, adding depth and reliability to their defence could be crucial — and Guehi is quickly emerging as a serious solution.
