Manchester City could be about to step into the market for a new central defender as uncertainty grows around the future of two senior players. With the summer transfer window entering its final week, Pep Guardiola faces a crucial decision over whether to strengthen his defensive department.
Outgoings Could Force City’s Hand
Over the past week, speculation surrounding City’s backline has intensified. Manuel Akanji has been strongly linked with Turkish giants Galatasaray, while Nathan Aké is the subject of interest from Everton. Both players’ situations remain unresolved, but exits are no longer being ruled out.
Should the pair depart, City’s depth at centre-back would be left stretched. Despite the arrivals of Abdukodir Khusanov and Rayan Aït-Nouri in recent months, Guardiola’s side would be overly reliant on Rúben Dias and John Stones, both of whom are expected to play heavy minutes this season.
Transfer Target Identified
According to reports from the Daily Star, City have identified Guehi as a potential £35 million target. The England international has only one year left on his Selhurst Park contract, meaning Palace may be forced to sell rather than risk losing him for free next summer.
Liverpool and Tottenham are both long-term admirers, while Barcelona have also been linked, setting up a potentially fierce transfer battle if City do make a move. Early indications suggest that a fee in the region of £35 million could be required to strike a deal before deadline day.
High Stakes for Guardiola
For Guardiola, the timing of the decision is critical. The club must weigh the risk of losing Akanji and Aké against the financial and competitive cost of moving for a new defender. A drawn-out situation could leave City vulnerable, while striking too early risks overpaying for a player whose contract situation should, in theory, reduce his market value.
Why This Move Matters
City’s ambitions remain sky-high for the 2025/26 season, with another Premier League title and a deep Champions League run firmly in their sights. To achieve that, squad balance will be essential. Adding another Premier League-proven defender would not only maintain depth but also ensure Guardiola has the tactical flexibility required to navigate a packed domestic and European schedule.
With just days left before the transfer window closes, all eyes will be on the Etihad. If Galatasaray firm up their interest in Akanji and Everton push ahead with a deal for Aké, Manchester City may be forced into one last major move to secure their defensive line.
