Marc Guehi transfer stance clear as Arsenal in £39m Real Madrid and Man City battle

Arsenal's January transfer plans are developing with key updates on Marc Guehi, Davide Bartesaghi and Manchester City's decisions

Arsenal are eyeing a fruitful January transfer window as they aim to clinch the Premier League title. Their strong squad is reflected in their six-point lead at the top of the table.

This lead was extended last weekend when a Declan Rice double helped Arsenal secure a 3-2 victory over Bournemouth, while Enzo Fernandes salvaged a point for Chelsea in the dying moments against Manchester City at Etihad Stadium.

Mikel Arteta's side will be looking to widen that gap further this midweek when they take on Liverpool at Emirates Stadium, a day after City host Brighton.

A 10-day hiatus from league football follows these matches, but the fixture list remains packed. Given the potential for injuries, bolstering squad depth this month will be a priority for all clubs, with City aiming to do just that.

Guehi transfer stance a boost for Arsenal

Title rivals Man City are gearing up for a busy winter transfer window following the significant injury to Josko Gvardiol. As per BBC, City have emerged as contenders for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi and are now exploring a January move.

The Eagles managed to fend off interest from Liverpool last summer, but appear resigned to losing him on a free transfer. While Palace could try to secure a fee this month, it seems Oliver Glasner is not keen on this happening.

When pressed about Guehi and the January window, he responded bluntly: "Of course we want to keep everyone." This followed his definitive statement from the week before: "I think Marc will stay until the end of the season."

Gvardiol's absence, possibly for the rest of the campaign, combined with Guehi remaining in south London, represents a significant boost for Arsenal's title aspirations.

Ruben Dias also departed their latest fixture with a suspected injury, which threatens to leave City severely depleted at the back.

Bartesaghi competition

Arsenal continue to be linked with a potential move for AC Milan youngster Davide Bartesaghi.

According to Quotidiano Sport, the Gunners are 'closely following' the 20 year old, with reports suggesting this interest has persisted for quite some time. With Manchester City and Real Madrid also monitoring the situation, Milan are working to secure a new long-term contract for the defender that would treble his current wages.

Primarily utilised as a left wing-back, he's demonstrated his adaptability by featuring on the left side of a back three in recent matches.

As a Milan academy product, it appears probable he would favour staying put, with external interest potentially strengthening his hand in negotiations for an improved contract.

However, reports suggest the Italian heavyweights would demand €45million (£39m) to part with him this month.