Manchester City are preparing to rival Liverpool in the race to sign Marc Guehi as a free agent next summer.
The England international will be one of the most sought-after defenders on the market when his Crystal Palace contract expires.
City’s interest threatens to set up a major transfer battle between the two Premier League giants.
Guehi was close to moving to Anfield on deadline day after Liverpool agreed a £35m deal, only for Palace to pull the plug in the final hours of the transfer window.
His situation now leaves him free to negotiate with overseas clubs from January, with a host of European heavyweights monitoring developments.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan and Juventus are all ready to make a move for Guehi.
However, Liverpool will return to the table next summer and believe their long-standing pursuit gives them an edge.
But City are understood to hold Guehi in high regard and are now preparing to make their move.
There will be no January exit from Selhurst Park. Guehi has reiterated his commitment to Palace, and his conduct during the failed Liverpool move has ensured he retains the backing of the supporters.
Palace now face losing their captain for nothing, and the level of interest ensures he will be able to command a lucrative contract.
Chelsea have also been linked with Guehi, but a return to the club where he came through the academy appears unlikely.
