It continues to be a strange season for the Manchester City fans in the Transfer Tavern, who’ve watched Pep Guardiola’s side struggle to wholly convince for a number of months now. 

Fantastic on their day, the Sky Blues often make life too difficult for themselves all over the park and trail leaders Chelsea by some distance, despite a strong start to the season.

It’s clear City’s squad has some deficiencies and, while they boast some of the most talented players in Europe, the Spaniard has some work to do in the January market.

Having spent rather a lot in the summer, City obviously have the funds to add further reinforcements, though the nature of play under Guardiola’s watch requires a certain brand of player.

While the New Year sales are a notoriously hard place to get value for money, the spending power available at the Etihad means buying players is simply a must.

With that in mind, here are TWO deals Man City should wrap up ASAP.

Virgil van Dijk

Despite the huge money splashed on John Stones over the summer, the England international is yet to fully convince and huge question marks remain over the club’s defence.

With that in mind, a move for Southampton’s imperious Virgil van Dijk would be a good move for Guardiola.

Boasts the sort of technique befitting of a man to play under Guardiola, the Dutchman is also a thoroughly resolute defender.

Ricardo Rodriguez

With quality left-backs at a premium these days, the fact that City so desperately need a new one is a pressing issue at the Etihad.

To that end, a move for Wolfsburg ace Ricardo Rodriguez would be well advised, such are the nature of his impressive few seasons in the Bundesliga.

A threat going forward, as well as from set-pieces, the 24-year-old would certainly improve that berth.