The regular City fans here in the Transfer Tavern are hoping Guardiola makes a handful of new additions in this transfer window.
Manchester City may have one of the best squads in the Premier League and one of the best managers in the world at their disposal, but it’s fair to say the Citizens have been largely underwhelming this season.
Currently sat fourth in the standings and seven points behind leaders Chelsea, City need a vast improvement in the second-half of the season if they are to have any chance of competing for the title.
As such, it wouldn’t be too much of a surprise to see Guardiola spend this month to improve his squad and it’s worth completing business as soon as possible in January, to increase the impact new signings will have on the squad and allow more time for them to settle in.
We’re now approaching the halfway point of the January window and City should be looking to complete deals swiftly, with it being wise to push through a deal for these two targets immediately.
Ivan Rakitic
Ivan Rakitic has not featured in La Liga for Barcelona since the El Clasico last month and speculation persists on the Croatian midfielder’s future. Whilst it’s been reported he will stay put in January, pressure from Manchester City could lead to a deal being completed.
Rakitic is no longer a guaranteed starter at the Nou Camp and he’s likely to leave at some point in 2017. If City were to make a move this month, their chances of success would increase significantly and Rakitic certainly has the ability to excel in English football.
Jese Rodriguez
Jese Rodriguez hasn’t quite had things go his way since moving to Paris Saint-Germain last summer and a move could take place this month.
Whilst City may be content with their current wide options, Jese is too good to turn down.
Turning 24 next month, Jese would add increased depth to Manchester City’s wide areas and the guidance of Pep Guardiola could make him a hit- as we’ve already seen this season with the Catalan’s lasting impression over Raheem Sterling.
