Transfer News: Manchester City star ruled out for the season, Guardiola eyes Eagles defender as replacement

Manchester City have reportedly opened talks to sign Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi following the devastating news that Josko Gvardiol has suffered a fractured leg.

Gvardiol was forced off during Sunday’s 1–1 draw with Chelsea after a collision with Malo Gusto. On Monday, City confirmed the 23-year-old has a tibial fracture (shinbone break) in his right leg.

He is scheduled for surgery later this week and is expected to be sidelined for up to five months, effectively ending his domestic season and leaving him as a doubt for the 2026 World Cup.

The injury crisis at the Etihad has been compounded by Ruben Dias also picking up a muscle injury in the same match, while John Stones remains out for the long term.

With Nathan Ake’s minutes needing careful management, Pep Guardiola has been left with only Abdukodir Khusanov and academy graduate Max Alleyne as fit center-back options.

In response, City have turned their attention to Guehi, who is out of contract this summer.

While the 25-year-old was expected to leave Selhurst Park as a free agent, City are now weighing up a £40 million bid to secure him immediately.

Palace may be tempted to cash in now rather than lose their captain for free, though City face competition from Liverpool for the England international’s signature