Softfootball understands that Pep Guardiola has once again chosen caution over clarity when asked about Manchester City’s January transfer plans, particularly the possibility of signing a new centre-back.
Speaking during a recent press conference following the club’s announcement of Antoine Semenyo’s arrival from Bournemouth, as reported by Fabrizio Romano via his official X account, the City boss was pressed on whether more reinforcements could follow.
He said:
Pep Guardiola on Man City to sign Marc Guehi or a centre back: Can’t answer that question. I don’t know.
That answer, unsurprisingly, has done little to slow speculation. If anything, it’s been read as a deliberate attempt to dampen the noise rather than shut the door entirely. Behind the scenes, City’s defensive situation is becoming harder to ignore.
Injuries have piled up in central defence. Josko Gvardiol is facing a lengthy spell out with a broken shin, while Ruben Dias is sidelined with a hamstring issue. Their exits during the 1-1 draw with Chelsea on January 4 only underlined the problem.
According to reports, City want to sign a centre-back this month and are pushing to make it happen, with Guehi viewed as a reliable, low-risk option. No formal bid has been submitted, but talks with Palace chairman Steve Parish and the player’s camp are ongoing.
Guehi, 25, nearly joined Liverpool last September before the move collapsed, and Bayern Munich are also keeping tabs ahead of a possible summer switch. The city’s current needs, however, could accelerate things.
Guardiola has been clear that there will be no repeat of last season’s heavy January spending. With John Stones and Nathan Aké both out of contract in 2026, the club must balance short-term fixes with long-term thinking.
On the surface, City look relaxed, but behind the scenes they’re clearly staying alert. And regardless of Guardiola’s words, the links to Guehi don’t seem random at all.
