Manchester City got back to winning ways in the Premier League courtesy of a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Burnley on Monday.

Pep Guardiola’s side produced a limp display to lose 1-0 at Liverpool on New Year’s Eve, yet they recovered admirably to overcome Sean Dyche’s Clarets and start 2017 with a win.

It means that the Citizens are back up to third in the table following a 13th league victory of the campaign, although they may find themselves back down to fifth by the time they face Everton on January 15, as both Arsenal and Tottenham have games in hand.

Nonetheless, it was a much-needed victory for Guardiola and his side, and it reduces the gap between them and league leaders Chelsea to seven points ahead of the Blues’ clash with Spurs on Wednesday.

In what has been a busy festive period, some managers will soon be turning their attentions to the transfer window in a bid to bolster their squads ahead of the second half of the season.

Guardiola may be one of those looking at strengthening his side, so here are TWO players that would make City’s season should they arrive at the Etihad this month…

Virgil van Dijk

It’s clear that City still have defensive issues and, with Vincent Kompany persistently injured, Guardiola needs to strengthen that area if City are to challenge for the title.

Thus, they may take a look at one of the best defenders in the Premier League this season in the form of Virgil van Dijk.

The Southampton centre-back has been outstanding for the Saints thus far (forgetting his red card against West Brom last weekend), and has proven to be a quality, all round modern-day defender.

The Dutch international is as strong aerially as he is with the ball at his feet, and would certainly complement Guardiola’s style, and indeed his expectations of his defenders.

Reports suggest that City are one of a few teams keeping tabs on van Dijk, and it’s certainly a deal they should try and push through this month.

Alexis Sanchez

Alexis Sanchez has still yet to sign a new and improved deal at Arsenal and, even though there are positive vibes coming out of the club, until the Chilean signs on the dotted line, there is going to speculation and uncertainty regarding his future.

The 28-year-old has been one of the best players in the Premier League so far this season, netting 12 goals and laying on seven assists for Arsene Wenger’s side.

His deployment in a more advanced role has brought the best out of him and several other Gunners players, so it’s clear that he is one of the most important players in that Arsenal squad, and it seems that he wants a new contract to reflect that.

Guardiola worked with Sanchez during their time together at Barcelona, so he knows what sort of player he’ll be getting, and his experience of and clear ability in English football means he would hugely benefit City.

The Manchester club have the financial power to bring Sanchez to the Etihad Stadium, and the longer his contract saga rumbles on at Arsenal, the more likely it is that a club like City could come in for him.