Man City Reach Agreement to Sign Marc Guehi

Manchester City have reportedly reached an agreement in principle to sign Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi as the Premier League champions seek to ease their ongoing defensive crisis.

According to reports on Friday, the 25-year-old England international is close to completing a move to the Etihad Stadium, with Sky Sports indicating that negotiations are now in the final stages.

Guehi had been on the verge of joining Liverpool on transfer deadline day in September before the deal collapsed. He has also attracted interest from Liverpool once again, as well as Bayern Munich, with several clubs initially planning to move for him at the end of the season when he was expected to become a free agent.

Speaking ahead of City’s clash with Manchester United, manager Pep Guardiola declined to comment on the club’s reported pursuit of Guehi, insisting he had “nothing to say” on the matter.

City’s need for defensive reinforcements has been heightened by a series of injuries. Guardiola admitted his side is struggling for options at the back, with John Stones, Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol all sidelined.

“Without John, without Ruben, without Josko, we are in a difficult situation for not one game but a long, long period,” Guardiola said. “It’s a difficult situation. Ruben will be back soon. Josko, no. John, hopefully we’ll see.”

Guehi captained Crystal Palace to FA Cup glory against Manchester City in May and has earned 26 caps for England. Guardiola’s side currently sit second in the Premier League table, six points behind leaders Arsenal.