Marc Guehi inists there was only team he was interested in signing for once he learned of Manchester City’s interest.
The England international came close to joining Liverpool in the summer before a much anticipated moved fell through during the closing stages of the window.
Having remained at Selhurst Park, the FA Cup holders were faced with a difficult decision earlier this month when it became apparent that the club captain was unwilling to sign a new deal that had entered its final six months.
Premier League leaders Arsenal expressed an interest, despite their already well stocked defence, but the Gunners were reportedly keen on waiting until the summer to sign the former Chelsea centre-half on a free.
Guehi, however, insists he only has eyes for City and wants to help Pep Guardiola’s side get back to dominating English football.
He said: ‘There’s been some talk and a lot of noise. But when they asked if I wanted to come to City, there was only one answer.
‘I know what winning feels like and I won’t stop until I get that same feeling. A lot has been said but I’ll let my football do the talking.’
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If City are to return to trophy winning ways this season, Guehi will have to make an immediate impact given the defensive injuries currently plaguing Guardiola’s squad.
City are currently without centre-backs John Stones, Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias because of injury while Nathan Ake has struggled to play more than once a week due to fitness issues.
The inexperienced pair of Abdukodir Khusanov and Max Alleyne, aged 21 and 20 respectively, have started the last four games but Guehi’s availability will increase Guardiola’s options.
‘First and foremost, it’s such an honour, such a big club to come and play for,’ added Guehi, who cost City £20million.
‘For me, I have always just been obsessed with getting better and wanting to improve and that’s something I am constantly striving for and this is the perfect place for me to do that.
‘I have heard so much about the club and the fans, the players speak for themselves, the manager.
‘It’s definitely the right environment for me to improve and just get better. Hopefully I can bring what I have to the table to help every single person here too.’
‘[It’s been] Absolute domination to be honest and it’s been great to see where the club has come from,’ Guehi added when asked what he made of City winning 18 trophies under Guardiola’s reign.
‘The growth and continued growth which the club wants to go for and strive for which is amazing.
‘I am someone who just wants to come in and help and do his part and see how far the club can continue to grow.’
