Against the backdrop of staff shortages and persistent problems on the defensive line, Manchester City's management has taken the matter of strengthening the squad with new players very seriously. For the "Citizens," every defensive loss this season is a separate headache - therefore, a "fast and precise" solution is being sought in the transfer market.
Against this backdrop, reports emerged that the club had taken seriously the option of bringing England national team and Crystal Palace center-back Mark Gehry to the team. According to The Independent, City has already begun negotiations for the player's transfer.
According to sources, the 25-year-old defender is not against considering offers. However, it is said that he prefers the scenario of leaving as a free agent in the summer rather than changing the team in January. The reason is very simple: in the summer, the terms can be financially more advantageous - because the transfer is "free" and the player gains more in terms of contracts and bonuses.
At the same time, Manchester City intends to make a strong effort to convince Hexi of their project. Because City needs a ready defender right now, right this month: experience, speed, position selection - everything must be a "ready package." From this perspective, the club is trying to persuade the player to reach an agreement right now, without waiting for the summer.
The situation at Crystal Palace is understandable: if the player doesn't renew his contract, there's a possibility he'll agree to a deal on certain terms to avoid losing it for free in six months. That is, there are two choices for the club: to make money now or to say goodbye to "zero" later.
In short, this transfer is not yet official, but the logic is firm: City is rushing to close the gaps in defense, while Gexi wants to build his future from the most advantageous point. Now it's interesting - which side will "get what they want": the club's operational plan or the player's summer "freedom" scenario.
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