Done deal! Man City sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace on a 5.5-year contract worth £300,000 a week

Guehi was one of the top targets in the January transfer window. Last year, he decided not to extend his contract with Crystal Palace, meaning he was set to become a free agent next summer. Liverpool were close to signing him, but Palace manager Oliver Glasner blocked the move.

Six months later, Guehi finally left Selhurst Park to join Manchester City. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, City paid £20 million to complete the deal. Guehi has signed a 5.5-year contract and will earn around £300,000 a week, making him one of the club’s highest-paid players, behind Erling Haaland and level with Bernardo Silva.

Speaking after the deal was completed, Guehi said: “I am really happy and incredibly proud to be a Manchester City player. This move feels like the reward for all the hard work I have put into my career. I am now at the best club in England and part of an unbelievable squad. It feels special to say that.

“I want to grow as a player and as a person, and I know this club will help me do that. Football has given me so much, and continuing my development at Manchester City is a very special moment for me and my family.”

Pep Guardiola also expressed his satisfaction with the signing. “He is a top central defender and an England international,” the City manager said. “I want to thank the club. He is the perfect age for the future, can play on the right or left, and most importantly, he chose us. With the problems we have had at the back, it is very important that he is here.”

Manchester City are currently in Norway preparing for their Champions League match against Bodo/Glimt on Wednesday at 17:45 (UK time). Guehi will not be available for that match, as UEFA regulations do not allow him to play until he is registered. If City qualify for the last 16 as a top-eight team, he will be eligible. For now, he is expected to make his debut against Wolves.

At 25, Guehi is regarded as one of the top centre-backs in the Premier League. He captained Crystal Palace to their first FA Cup title and later lifted the Community Shield against Liverpool. He has been part of the England setup since 2022 and is expected to be a key option at centre-back for the 2026 World Cup under Thomas Tuchel.