Marc Guehi Joins Manchester City
It appeared that Marc Guehi would remain with Crystal Palace for the season — everyone believed so, except Manchester City, who acted quickly. On Monday, City confirmed the signing of the 25-year-old defender for £20 million ($26.9 million), with a contract set to run until 2031. His addition strengthens their squad for the season’s second half and positions him for his peak years at the club.
City’s eagerness to secure Guehi led them to offer a transfer fee exceeding what was initially anticipated for the summer, when his Palace contract was due to expire. According to anonymous sources, City also provided Guehi’s agent with a substantial commission on top of the £20 million fee. There’s a sell-on clause allowing Palace to earn 10% from any future sale. While Guehi’s wage demands were around £300,000 per week, insiders indicate that the final agreement was for a lower amount.
This combination of commitment and financial might was necessary to shift Guehi’s situation; just weeks prior, a January transfer seemed unlikely. After a failed move to Liverpool last summer, Guehi opted not to renew his deal with Palace and intended to see out his current contract.
With the opportunity to negotiate with international clubs starting January 1, Guehi’s representatives spoke with various potential suitors, including Bayern Munich, which made a compelling offer. While Palace aimed to retain their captain, Guehi was in no rush to leave. Though disappointed by his near transfer to Liverpool, he was satisfied at Palace, especially in a World Cup year, knowing his salary would increase significantly in the summer.
City expressed their satisfaction at acquiring Guehi, a player they have long admired, as he adds to their homegrown player quota and addresses their injury challenges. With Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and John Stones sidelined, Guehi’s arrival is timely.
While Liverpool was initially seen as the frontrunner for Guehi’s signature, they later decided to pursue him in the summer of 2026 instead. Bayern Munich also showed interest, but both clubs reassessed their financial offerings. Chelsea, his former club, had previously targeted Guehi but abandoned the pursuit due to Crystal Palace’s valuation. Arsenal had also expressed admiration, considering him for the future rather than this current window.
In conclusion, City successfully finalized Guehi’s transfer after intensive negotiations early last week. After informing Crystal Palace’s manager Oliver Glasner about his decision not to play in an upcoming match, the deal was publicly confirmed amidst Glasner’s displeasure over the timing. Guehi will now aim to debut against Wolves amid a reshaping City squad that is strategically adjusting its wage structure while looking ahead to future seasons.
