Manchester City are working to reshape their defence during this January transfer window with two departures expected and an offer being prepared for Marc Guehi.
During the last January window, Manchester City broke the bank by investing over €200m (£175.6m) to strengthen Pep Guardiola's squad, who appeared to be losing steam. Abdukodir Khusanov, Omar Marmoush and Nico all arrived at the Manchester club.
This winter, the Sky Blues struck hard from the outset by signing Antoine Semenyo for €72m (£63.3m). The English giants do not intend to stop there. Indeed, Manchester City appear set to reshape their defence. While a right-back is still being sought, the second-placed Premier League side first want to focus on the central area.
Stones and Ake heading for Manchester City exit in 2026
According to The Athletic, Pep Guardiola's side are preparing to part ways with two centre-backs: John Stones and Nathan Ake. Out of contract, the Englishman will not be offered an extension and should therefore leave on a free at the end of the season. For his part, the Netherlands international is on the verge of leaving as early as this month.
Their injury history and the decline in their level in recent months have been determining factors in Manchester City's decision to show them the door. To replace these two players and strengthen the heart of the defence, the English giants are already working on it.
Manchester City want to negotiate with Crystal Palace for Marc Guehi
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Manchester City are preparing to make an offer in January for Marc Guehi. Discussions have recently taken place with Crystal Palace. The Sky Blues are hoping to negotiate with the Eagles, who are demanding €40m (£35.1m) for their defender.
A significant amount for a player out of contract at the end of the season. City believe Palace will lower their demands as the window progresses, particularly for fear of seeing the England international leave for nothing six months later. In addition to convincing their counterparts, the Manchester club will also have to do the same with Marc Guehi.
The latter has always been content to finish the season with Crystal Palace before choosing his next club next summer. It should be noted that, in addition to the Citizens, Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in a move for the 25-year-old this summer, while Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan have also made enquiries.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
