Pep Guardiola’s Side Hold Direct Talks as Injuries Mount to Gvardiol, Dias, and Stones.

Manchester City have ramped up their pursuit of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, entering direct talks with the club as a defensive injury crisis deepens at the Etihad on January 5, 2026.

The 25-year-old England international, whose contract expires in summer 2026, has long been admired by City but the urgency has intensified after fresh setbacks in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea.

Josko Gvardiol was forced off with a right ankle/leg issue in the second half, while Ruben Dias followed late on with a muscular problem. Manager Pep Guardiola described both as “doesn’t look good,” suggesting absences of several weeks. John Stones remains out long-term with a leg injury sustained earlier in the season.

City have already recalled young centre-back Max Alleyne from Watford as emergency cover, but reports from BBC Sport, Daily Mail, and TEAMtalk indicate they are now seriously exploring a January move for Guehi to avoid losing him for free in the summer.

Palace are open to selling this month to secure a fee – potentially around £35m-£50m – rather than risk a free exit. Guehi has informed the Eagles he will not extend his deal.

Liverpool retain strong interest after a near-miss last summer, while Bayern Munich have held talks with his representatives and are seen as major contenders for a pre-contract from abroad. Other clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Inter Milan are monitoring.

City’s immediate need could give them an edge in convincing Palace to sell now, disrupting plans for a summer free transfer battle.

Guehi, capped 26 times by England, has been a standout performer for Palace this season and would provide versatile, composed depth for Guardiola’s backline.

This developing story is one of the January window’s biggest sagas. SportBlits.com will bring you the latest as talks progress.