In a significant mid-season move, Premier League champions Manchester City have bolstered their defensive options by securing the signature of England international Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. The transfer, confirmed on 19th January 2026, sees the defender move to the Etihad Stadium for an initial fee of £20 million (approximately €23m).
A Bargain Deal for a Top Defender
The acquisition is viewed as a major coup for City, who have managed to sign one of the league's most consistent centre-backs at a relatively low price. This favourable deal was primarily due to Guehi's contract situation at Selhurst Park. The 25-year-old had entered the final six months of his deal, leaving Palace with a difficult choice: sell their captain now or risk losing him for free in the summer. The South London club opted for the former.
Beyond the initial £20 million payment, the agreement includes a percentage sell-on clause for Crystal Palace. Guehi has committed his long-term future to City by signing a five-and-a-half-year contract that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2031.
Guehi's Dream Move and City's Busy Window
Expressing his delight after completing the move, Marc Guehi stated he was incredibly proud to become a Manchester City player. "This move feels like the culmination of all the hard work I have put into my career," he said. "I am now at the best club in England and part of an unbelievable squad. I want to grow as a player and a person, and I know at this club that's going to happen."
The former Chelsea academy graduate also highlighted his love for the game and described the transfer as a special moment for his family. He is eager to start training, understand Pep Guardiola's demands, and show the City fans his abilities.
City faced competition for his signature, with Liverpool, Arsenal, and German giants Bayern Munich all reportedly interested in signing Guehi on a free transfer in the upcoming summer window.
Guardiola's Second Signing and City's Spending
Guehi becomes manager Pep Guardiola's second signing of the January 2026 transfer window, following the £64 million arrival of forward Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth. This latest purchase further underscores City's aggressive strategy in the market.
The investment in Guehi pushes the club's total transfer expenditure over the last 12 months to a staggering £445.9 million, spread across 15 new players. This demonstrates the club's continuous drive to reinforce and refresh their squad to maintain their dominance at the top of English and European football.
