Crystal Palace Approach Manchester City Defender as Potential Replacement for Liverpool Target Marc Guehi

A Turbulent Summer at Selhurst Park

The summer transfer window is always a time of nerves, rumours, and anticipation for football fans, but this year, supporters of Crystal Palace have had more than their fair share of drama. After an exhausting battle with UEFA over their demotion from the Europa League into the Conference League, the Eagles now face the very real possibility of losing one of their cornerstone players, Marc Guehi.

While losing Eberechi Eze to Arsenal already stung badly, the thought of watching Guehi walk through the Selhurst Park exit doors has created a wave of unease across South London. Palace’s recruitment team, however, appear determined not to be caught off guard. According to multiple outlets including BBC Sport, the club have made an approach for Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji, a player whose experience, composure, and versatility could provide an instant solution should Liverpool make their long-rumoured move for Guehi.

What Happened?

The story unfolded when reports surfaced that Palace had quietly tested the waters regarding Akanji’s availability. While not a household name in the way some of Pep Guardiola’s other centre-backs are, the Swiss international has been an important cog in City’s machine since arriving in 2022.

Having played his part in City’s historic treble-winning campaign in 2022-23, Akanji has proven himself on the biggest stages. But Guardiola’s squad is notoriously deep in central defence, with Ruben Dias, John Stones, Nathan Ake, Josko Gvardiol, and even rising star Abdukodir Khusanov all available. That leaves Akanji as a player who, while valuable, might be considered expendable in order to trim the squad and refresh certain areas.

For Palace, this presents an opportunity. With Guehi attracting serious attention from Liverpool, who are eager to bolster their defensive options, securing Akanji could soften the blow of losing one of their best assets.

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The Bigger Picture: Palace’s Summer Rollercoaster

To understand why Palace are pursuing Akanji so aggressively, one must first grasp the turbulence of their summer.

• European Frustration: The dispute with UEFA over their demotion from the Europa League to the Conference League has left fans frustrated and players unsettled. For a club that had hoped to showcase its talent on a bigger European stage, the downgrade felt like a step backwards.

• Eze’s Departure: Losing Eberechi Eze to Arsenal was another major blow. The England midfielder was not just a creative hub but also a fan favourite. His move north to the Emirates left Palace with both a tactical hole and an emotional wound.

• Guehi’s Future in Doubt: Now comes the biggest challenge yet. Liverpool’s interest in Marc Guehi is no secret. The centre-back, who has steadily grown into one of England’s most reliable defenders, looks tailor-made for Jürgen Klopp’s system. Palace face the very real risk of seeing their defensive leader prised away before deadline day.

With so much uncertainty swirling around Selhurst Park, Oliver Glasner and his backroom team cannot afford to leave anything to chance. That’s why Akanji’s name has emerged so prominently—he could be exactly the kind of steady, proven presence they need.

Why Manuel Akanji?

Some may ask: why Akanji? Why not target a younger defender with resale value or an unpolished gem from abroad? The answer lies in Palace’s unique position.

• Experience at the Top Level: Akanji has played at the very highest level, from the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund to the Premier League with Manchester City. He has also been a key figure for the Swiss national team, with multiple appearances in major tournaments.

• Composure Under Pressure: Palace’s defence will be tested both domestically and in Europe this season. Having a player who has stood up to the pressure of Champions League knockouts and Premier League title races is invaluable.

• Versatility: While primarily a centre-back, Akanji is comfortable playing across the backline, including at full-back if needed. That flexibility could be crucial for a squad facing the demands of multiple competitions.

Did You Know?

• Akanji was signed by City in 2022 for a relatively modest fee compared to some of their other signings, and he quickly established himself as a reliable option during their treble-winning season.

• At 28, Akanji is entering what many consider the peak years for a defender. His blend of athleticism, intelligence, and calm decision-making make him a well-rounded option.

• Galatasaray are also monitoring Akanji’s situation, meaning Palace may face competition if they want to secure his services.

What Next for Palace?

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At this stage, Palace’s next steps are tied closely to Liverpool’s pursuit of Guehi.

If the Premier League champions decide to press ahead with a formal bid, Palace will have little choice but to engage in negotiations. Guehi’s contract situation gives Palace some leverage, but Liverpool’s financial power means a well-structured offer could be difficult to refuse.

Should Guehi leave, expect Palace to push hard for Akanji. The Swiss international wouldn’t just be a stopgap—he would represent a strong statement of intent. By moving quickly and decisively, Palace can show their supporters that even in the face of big-name departures, they are still capable of attracting top-tier talent.

Oliver Glasner’s Challenge

For Glasner, the task is daunting. Taking over a squad in transition, he must manage the psychological toll of losing key players while keeping the team competitive on multiple fronts. Palace are already fighting to maintain their slender 1-0 advantage over Fredrikstad in the Conference League play-off, a tie that could shape the trajectory of their season.

If Guehi stays, Glasner will breathe easier, knowing he has his defensive leader. If not, he will need Akanji—or someone of his calibre—settled and integrated quickly to ensure Palace don’t stumble early in the campaign.

Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment for Palace

The possible move for Manuel Akanji is more than just a transfer rumour—it’s a symbol of where Crystal Palace find themselves right now. A club caught between ambition and reality, pride and pragmatism, hope and fear.

Fans have already endured the heartbreak of losing Eze. Losing Guehi would sting even more. But football is as much about resilience as it is about talent. By targeting a player like Akanji, Palace are sending a clear message: they will not roll over. They will adapt, rebuild, and continue to push forward.

Whether or not Akanji ultimately ends up at Selhurst Park, the story encapsulates the volatility and excitement of the transfer window. And for Palace fans, it’s a reminder that even in uncertain times, the club is still fighting for a brighter future.