Manchester City’s transfer strategy for the January 2025 window is becoming clearer as the club aims to address a number of issues this season. Injuries, defensive problems, and an attack struggling to find its rhythm have left City’s title bid in jeopardy. With a strong financial position, Pep Guardiola and director of football Txiki Begiristain are preparing for a crucial window to strengthen the squad.
As City looks to defend their Premier League title, areas in midfield, defense, and attack remain priority targets. Here’s a breakdown of what City need, the players they are targeting, and the latest on player departures.
WHAT DO MAN CITY NEED IN JANUARY?
City’s biggest need is in midfield. With Rodri sidelined for the rest of the season and injuries affecting Mateo Kovacic, the team is struggling to dominate games. Ilkay Gundogan’s return from Barcelona hasn’t filled the void, and Julian Alvarez’s departure has made the need for more attacking options even more pressing.
Defensive reinforcements are also essential. The defense has been weakened by injuries, forcing Guardiola to use makeshift solutions like Matheus Nunes at left-back. This has exposed the team and led to several poor performances.
Finally, a versatile forward is crucial. With Alvarez gone, and De Bruyne and Foden underperforming, the attack lacks creativity and consistency. Erling Haaland’s goal-scoring form has also dipped, and City need more firepower.
MANCHESTER CITY’S JANUARY TRANSFER TARGETS:
DREAM SIGNINGS:
Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United): Guimaraes remains Guardiola’s top midfield target. The Brazilian’s physicality and passing ability would be a perfect fit for City. However, Newcastle’s £100 million asking price could be a deal-breaker, especially considering Guimaraes is already 27 years old.
Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad): Zubimendi is another option to bolster the midfield. His composure on the ball could help City regain control in tight games. While fans would welcome his arrival, the club’s reluctance to pay a premium price for someone with similar qualities to Rodri could see them look elsewhere.
Miguel Gutierrez (Girona): A left-back option, Gutierrez’s familiarity with City Football Group’s playing style makes him an ideal target.
REALISTIC OPTIONS:
Ederson (Atalanta): Atalanta’s Ederson could provide the energy and defensive cover City need in midfield. He offers versatility, something Zubimendi lacks, making him a more practical option.
Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest): Aina has impressed at Forest this season and could be an option for Guardiola at right-back, offering cover across the defense.
Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt): The attacking forward could add pace and goal-scoring ability to the team, a much-needed spark in City’s attack.
Nico Paz (Como): Real Madrid academy product Nico Paz has been thriving at Como and could bring creativity and flair to City’s forward line.
Juma Bah (Real Valladolid): The young defender is one to watch, though he is more of a long-term prospect and not an immediate solution to City’s defensive struggles.
WHO COULD LEAVE MANCHESTER CITY IN JANUARY?
Guardiola is known for preferring a small squad, and with injuries already taking their toll, significant departures are unlikely. However, some younger players may go out on loan to gain experience.
Claudio Echeverri, a highly rated prospect from River Plate, is expected to join City but could be loaned out for more development over the summer.
At the end of the season, City may see more high-profile departures. Key players like Kyle Walker, Ederson, and Kevin De Bruyne could leave as part of a squad overhaul.
MANCHESTER CITY CONTRACTS LATEST:
Kevin De Bruyne’s contract situation is one of the most pressing issues. The Belgian’s deal expires in 2025, and there has been interest from MLS and Saudi Arabian clubs. De Bruyne has struggled for fitness and form this season, making an exit more likely.
Ilkay Gundogan’s situation is also unclear. The midfielder signed a one-year contract with the option of a second year when he returned from Barcelona, but his performances so far have not justified triggering the extension.
Despite the club’s healthy financial position, tough decisions will be needed to shape the squad for the future.
KEEP IN MIND:
Manchester City’s success in the January window could determine whether they remain in contention for their fifth consecutive Premier League title. With injuries still plaguing the squad, smart signings will be crucial in strengthening key areas of the team.
