Manchester City confirm signing of England defender Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace
Manchester City on Monday announced the signing of England centre-back Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace in a deal worth around 30 million pounds.
Manchester City officially announced the signing of England defender Marc Guehi from Premier League rivals Crystal Palace on Monday, January 19. Guehi has penned a five-and-a-half-year contract at City for a transfer fee worth around 30 million pounds, including add-ons.
Guehi's acquisition is set to further bolster Manchester City's defence, which already consists of the likes of John Stones, Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias, among others. The transfer ended speculation around the future of the 25-year-old, who established himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League at Crystal Palace over the last couple of seasons.
Guehi, who attracted interest from multiple clubs, was close to joining Liverpool during the summer transfer window last year. His move to Liverpool was all but finalised before collapsing at the last moment after Crystal Palace refused to sanction the transfer. Manchester City pounced on the opportunity to sign the defender in the January window.
The 30 million fee might come as a surprise to many for a player of Guehi's quality, however, the low fee is down to the defender's contract at Palace expiring at the end of the current 2025-26 season. Guehi had shown no interest in renewing his contract with Crystal Palace and was thus finally let go by the club.
The defender, who is set to wear no.15 at Manchester City, explained why he wanted to join Pep Guardiola's team. Guehi said the City move feels like his hard work has paid off and that he has signed for the best club in England.
"I am really happy and incredibly proud to be a Manchester City player. This move feels like the culmination of all the hard work I have put into my career. I am now at the best club in England and part of an unbelievable squad of players. I want to grow as a player and a person, and I know at this club that's going to happen," said Guehi after his move to City.
Manchester City sign Guehi to reinforce defence
Manchester City moved to sign England defender Guehi to reinforce their defence after injuries to centre-backs Gvardiol and Dias, who both missed the derby against Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday. Guehi, who joined Palace from Swansea, made 188 appearances for the club before moving to City.
He was part of the Crystal Palace side that lifted the FA Cup last season. Guehi's solid defending and his leadership qualities made him a leading contender for City. Meanwhile, the centre-back, who has made 26 appearances for England, wanted to play under Guardiola, which was one of the major factors behind his decision to join City.
However, Guehi will be ineligible for Manchester City's upcoming Champions League clash against Bodo/Glimt on Tuesday due to eligibility rules. He is expected to make his Premier League debut for the club in their Premier League clash against Wolves on Saturday, January 24.