Manchester City transfer window: John Stones and other signings that would boost the Blues

Manager Manuel Pellegrini isn't likely to make a host of January signings but here are some that could improve the Blues' title-chasing squad.

Manuel Pellegrini will not be bandying about Sheikh Mansour’s chequebook with reckless abandon during the January transfer window.

The Manchester City boss has arguably already has the deepest squad in the PremierLeague.He has not ruled out a dip into the market when it opens on January 2, saying: “We’re not closing the window but are not thinking of any special player. The squad is complete.”

Injuries to key men have bitten hard though this season, leaving the Blues boss short of options - particularly up front and in defence.

We look at a handful of players who could boost the Blues - and examine the obstacles in the way of doing a deal.

John Stones

English, talented and with his best years ahead of him, it is easy to see why John Stones is the most in-demand defender in the Premier League.

Chelsea have tried and failed to land him and United are said to be interested too.

Vincent Kompany’s on-going injury problems, some iffy form from Eliaquim Mangala and Nicolas Otamendi without the big Belgian next to them and Martin Demichelis’ likely departure at the end of the season have seen City lack defensive solidity at times.

A January move would be difficult but a bold offer - around £45m - could see off their rivals and markedly improve City’s defensive options.

Ryan Bertrand

Neither Aleks Kolarov or Gael Clichy have pinned down the left-back slot permanently.

Clichy has spent much of the campaign injured and, while Kolarov’s attacking intent and free-kick ability make him and asset, questions have justifiably been asked about his defensive attributes and lack of pace.

Both are over 30.

The Blues were linked with West Ham’s Ryan Cresswell last January but Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand is a more enticing English prospect.

At 26, the former Chelsea man has experience from loan spells at Aston Villa and Southampton. He has made the Saints’ left-back berth his own and won England honours - and the reputation of being equally happy attacking and defending.

After losing Luke Shaw and spending around £10m to replace him, Saints would fight to keep hold of their man.

Romelu Lukaku

Last January’s signing Wilfried Bony has failed to convince yet, youngster Kelechi Iheanacho is a work in progress and main man Sergio Aguero has been beset by injury problems.

Everton would again be resistent but if Bony was seen largely as back-up to Aguero, young, in-form powerhouse Lukaku could be seen as someone to challenge the Argentine.