Manchester City fans in the Transfer Tavern are like kids at Christmas every time a transfer window comes around, each one promising more than the last.

Having signed five first-team players in the summer, as well as bringing in Pep Guardiola to be their new manager (and the second coming according to some fans), City need to allow the new players time to gel and Pep the chance to get his ideas across.

After a strong start in the league, City need to rediscover that consistent form quickly before ending up out of contention altogether.

Indeed, with the FA Cup and Champions League still to play for, City may need to add quality reinforcements to ensure they can challenge on all fronts.

That in mind, then, with Gabriel Jesus set to join the fold and Fernandinho linked with Juventus, here is what our landlord reckons City’s 2017 line-up could look like…

GK: Claudio Bravo

The Chilean has endured a tumultuous start to life at City, settling in a new country and dealing with the different struggles ‘keepers face in England.

Whilst good with his feet, Bravo needs to marry this trait with better handling skills and command of his area.

RB: Bacary Sagna

The French right-back has been in regular competition with Pablo Zabaleta throughout his City career, but as the latter has aged, Sagna has stepped up to become a dependable defender.

He may be replaced in the starting XI before too long, but he will remain a vital member of the team regardless.

CB: John Stones

Whether because of stubbornness or patience, Guardiola is sure to continue with John Stones. This has frustrated some in the Transfer Tavern who would prefer a more gradual introduction into the starting XI.

Nevertheless, he is a fantastic defender on the ball with a commanding presence – the former Everton man certainly has the hallmarks of a top quality centre-half. However, Stones still needs to cut out the mistakes in his game if he is to reach his potential.

CB: Nicolas Otamendi

The rather diminutive Argentine has had a topsy-turvy City career so far. Sometimes he can play like a real leader, organising and getting about the opposition attackers, then other times he looks rash and gets bullied too easily.

Otamendi needs to ensure he consistently performs like the former if he is to partner Stones in the long-run.

LB: Gael Clichy

Our landlord would always pick Clichy as City’s first choice left back.

Whilst neither he or Aleksandar Kolarov are class defenders the Frenchman edges it but it would not be a surprise to see things change sooner rather than later in this position.

CDM: Yaya Toure

The Ivorian is back in the fold and our City fans are very happy with that.

He’s certainly a modern club legend and will undoubtedly be key as the club look to progress forward into 2017.

CDM: Fernando

With Fernandinho possibly on his way and Ilkay Gundogan out for some time injured, Fernando may get a long run in the team.

He’s defensively sound but could do with offering a little more other than that.

RAM: Kevin De Bruyne

De Bruyne has been a revelation at City since joining from German side Wolfsburg in 2015. He mixes guile with penetration and is truly deserving of the label ‘world class’.

As City continue their permanent evolution, the Belgian is essential to their future.

CF: Gabriel Jesus

The young Brazilian forward was signed in the summer for £27m as an Olympic Champion and one of the world’s best prospects.

Fans in the Transfer Tavern cannot wait to Jesus put on the sky blue kit. It will be interesting to see how he links up with international rival Sergio Aguero, though.

LAM: David Silva

City have signed a lot of class players but very few come close to this man.

He floats about the pitch and when he’s on top form no-one can get near him so expect him to be firmly in the side in 2017.

ST: Sergio Aguero

The Argentine, for the 2016/17 season, is integral to City’s hopes of winning trophies.

A clear focal point for City’s attack, Pep would be foolish to force him out the door past this year – not least because it would risk incurring the wrath of some of City’s most ardent fans.

Agree, City fans? Let us know below!