Bayern Munich are not expected to make any big-name signings during the winter transfer window. They are focusing on contract renewals and laying the groundwork for transfer dealings in the summer. Bayern could reportedly miss out on one of their summer transfer targets as Manchester City step up their efforts to sign the player in January.
According to the BBC, Manchester City are showing strong interest in signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. The English defender will become a free agent in the summer. After Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Diaz suffered serious injuries over the weekend, Manchester City are looking to strengthen their options in the heart of defense.
Guehi is attracting interest from several top clubs across Europe. Liverpool came close to signing him in the summer for £35 million, but Palace pulled the plug on the deal since they were not able to get a replacement for him on deadline day.
Bayern have been heavily linked with Guehi since the start of the season. The Bavarian club reportedly held talks with his representatives. Die Roten considered a move for Guehi if they lose Dayot Upamecano on a free transfer in the summer.
With Guehi continuing to deliver stellar performances for Palace in the Premier League, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Atletico Madrid are also showing interest in the English defender. Liverpool retain interest in Guehi, but they will face competition from several clubs for his signature in the summer.
It remains to be seen if Palace and Guehi are looking to part ways in January. The English defenders will have several options if he decides to wait until the end of the season.
Bayern should sign Guehi even if Upamecano stays
As things stand, it is looking increasingly likely that Dayot Upamecano will sign a new contract at Bayern. The club hierarchy is cautiously positive that the two parties are close to reaching an agreement.
Even if Upamecano ends up signing a new deal, Bayern should do everything possible to sign Guehi from Crystal Palace. With the long-term future of Kim Min-jae in doubt, Bayern will need a senior defender in the summer. Guehi, on a free transfer, will be one of the shrewd pieces of business Die Roten can do at the end of the season.
Bayern need to hope Manchester City fail to sign Guehi this month, and they make a compelling pitch to the English defender to ensure he opts for a move to Munich over other clubs.