City’s interest has gathered momentum amid growing concerns at the Etihad, after confirmation that Josko Gvardiol is facing surgery and a spell on the sidelines with a broken shinbone.
An injury to Ruben Dias has further enhanced Pep Guardiola’s problems, sustained at the weekend, while John Stones is also struggling for fitness. With the title race finely poised, City are assessing the market as they look to maintain their push.
Sources indicate, however, that Guehi has been part of City’s thinking for the past couple of months.
The England international is viewed as a great long-term addition and City have already made discreet enquiries to gauge his availability and intentions.
Liverpool came close to signing Guehi last summer, with a £35 million offer believed to have been acceptable to Palace and a deal at a similar valuation could still be possible this month.
Interest in the 25-year-old stretches beyond the Premier League, now. Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich are all understood to be monitoring the situation closely, with initial proposals already being prepared. Guehi is open to the possibility of a move abroad and would be eligible to agree a pre-contract with a foreign club this month.
City, though, retain a belief they can put themselves in contention. While a summer move had been the expected timeline, the club are willing to bring forward their plans if they decide immediate reinforcements are required.
That situation could suit Palace, who would prefer to cash in now rather than risk losing one of their most valuable assets for free at the end of the season.
Whether Guehi opts to move immediately remains to be seen.
Waiting until the summer could offer greater financial leverage, but the opportunity to work under Pep Guardiola - combined with a Premier League title push ahead of heading to the World Cup with England - presents a compelling decision for the defender.
