Manchester City Secure England Defender Marc Guehi

Manchester City have confirmed the arrival of England international Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, signing the defender to a five year and six month deal, as revealed by the club on Monday.

The Premier League side intensified their efforts to acquire Guehi in a transfer valued at around GBP 20 million, equivalent to USD 27 million, following a severe shortage of centre backs due to injuries, with the completion of this transfer long anticipated.

The new signing expressed his delight in a club statement, stating, "I am thrilled and immensely proud to join Manchester City."

"This feels like the peak of all the dedication I have invested in my career. Now I am with the top team in England, surrounded by an exceptional group of players.

"It is great to declare that. I aim to develop both on and off the pitch, and I am certain that will occur here."

Hugo Viana, Manchester Citys director of football, praised Guehi as "one of the standout defenders in English football for a considerable period."

"We believe we have brought in a major talent who will elevate our team," he added. "At just 25 years old, he has already demonstrated leadership qualities, professionalism and a strong desire for growth."

Guehi nearly moved to Liverpool during the September transfer window, yet this marks Citys second acquisition this January, coming after the GBP 65 million signing of winger Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth last week.

The player led Palace to victory in the FA Cup final against City in May, securing the London outfits first significant honour, and he has earned 26 appearances for England.

Several teams, such as Liverpool and Bayern Munich, were monitoring Guehi with plans for a summer approach, especially as his contract was set to expire, making him a free agent.

Oliver Glasner, Palace manager, noted on Friday that negotiations were nearing completion.

Under Pep Guardiola, City sit in second place in the Premier League table, trailing leaders Arsenal by seven points.

Key centre backs John Stones, Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol were absent during Saturdays 2 0 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford.