Manchester City have taken a major step towards signing Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehy, with manager Fabrizio Romano reporting that “big approaches” have been made in the past 12 hours.
The Premier League giants have presented the England international with a significant contract offer.
City are also “ready to progress” with Palace, putting the deal firmly in advanced territory.
Man City move quickly after defensive crisis
Pep Guardiola’s impatience stems from injuries to Ruben Dias and Yoshko Gvardiol, both of whom have been sidelined for several weeks.
With clubs competing on multiple fronts including the Premier League title, Champions League and domestic cup competitions, City cannot afford to go into the second half of the season without a central defender.
Guehi, 25, emerged as the ideal solution. His contract expires in the summer, but he has already told Palace he will not extend his contract and the Eagles are under pressure to make money now rather than lose him on a free transfer.
The situation has left the England defender available for a bargain price, according to sources.
Guardiola is ready to show ambition at the window
The offer is aimed at convincing the player that Man City is the most attractive project on a shortlist that includes Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Arsenal.
Guardiola is also thought to be a huge admirer of Gehi’s experience and talent.
Nothing has been signed yet, but all signs point to progress. Man City are making progress, Gehi appears to be interested and Palace are open to a sale.
With just a few weeks left until the January deadline, Man City are progressing rapidly and the mood around this deal is becoming increasingly optimistic.
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