Injury to Gvardiol May Prompt Man City to Expedite Transfer Plans for Guehi

Manchester City's centre-back, Josko Gvardiol, has sustained a right leg fracture, prompting the club to consider entering the transfer market, with Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi being a long-term target of interest. The injury occurred during the second half of Sunday's Premier League match against Chelsea, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Gvardiol is scheduled to undergo surgery later this week, although the duration of his absence remains uncertain. Manchester City is currently short on centre-backs, as Ruben Dias was also injured during the match against Chelsea, and John Stones is already sidelined. The club has recalled 20-year-old Max Alleyne from his loan spell at Watford but may now accelerate plans to sign a new centre-back initially intended for the summer. Guehi's contract with Crystal Palace expires at the end of the season, and Manchester City had planned to target him on a free transfer. However, he may become a viable option this month if the club decides to enter the market sooner. According to Sky Sports News, Palace believes Liverpool may attempt to sign Guehi during this transfer window. Although no formal approaches have been made, Palace is prepared for potential offers, with Bayern Munich and Barcelona also expressing interest. Real Madrid has been a long-time admirer, but their interest may have waned, as reported in Spanish media outlets. Crystal Palace is expected to consider offers below their initial asking price last summer. Guehi nearly signed with Liverpool on Deadline Day for £35m last summer. Despite the speculation, Guehi remains committed to Palace, and no decision has been made regarding his potential departure this month.