Marc Guehi latest: Manchester City ‘pushing’ as player stance becomes problematic

Manchester City are continuing to push in their attempts to lure Marc Guehi to the Etihad Stadium this month, according to the latest updates on the player’s future.

Despite Pep Guardiola recently casting public doubt over whether any further business would be conducted in January, behind-the-scenes developments suggest the situation remains active and fluid.

City’s defensive concerns have not disappeared, and with injuries continuing to disrupt Guardiola’s options at the back, recruitment in central defence is still viewed as a live discussion inside the club.

Earlier updates indicated City were preparing financial packages for Marc Guehi , with figures ranging from £20 million to £30 million mentioned, while confidence had also been reported within the Etihad Stadium that a deal could be achievable.

However, that optimism was recently tempered by comments from Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, who stressed his belief Guehi would remain at Selhurst Park unless “massive money” arrived.

Adding further complexity, City have also been made aware of potential competition from elsewhere in the Premier League, with Arsenal reported as monitoring the situation.

Now, according to the information of The Athletic’s Sam Lee , while Manchester City continue to look for a new signing in the centre of defence this month, there is an understanding that Marc Guehi will stay at Crystal Palace until the summer.

Although there is also a reported feeling that the England international may prefer other projects, City are said to be ‘pushing to change the landscape’ and bring him to the Etihad Stadium as soon as possible.

Elsewhere, Fabrizio Romano has recently reported that Manchester City will continue to try for Guehi this week and are prepared to make an agreement with Crystal Palace, if the player accepts a move despite his preference of a free transfer in summer.

These updates underline that the central obstacle in negotiations is no longer purely financial, but increasingly about the player’s own stance. With Marc Guehi able to speak freely to clubs ahead of a potential free transfer, his leverage has grown significantly.

From City’s perspective, the appeal of securing Guehi now rather than summer is clear. It would provide immediate defensive reinforcement and remove uncertainty around competition, particularly those who may be better positioned to offer a leading role.

If City can convince Guehi that a move to Guardiola’s side represents the best pathway for his development and success, Crystal Palace may yet be persuaded to negotiate. If not, the expectation may shift further toward a prolonged wait until the summer.