This is Manchester City’s dream January defence including these key targets

LB – David Alaba

As aforementioned, the full-backs are the chief concern at City, and it’s even more so at left-back than it is at right-back.

Aleksandar Kolarov has never been a great defender, and with him and Gael Clichy on the wrong side of 30, Guardiola may want to bring someone in during January to bolster that department.

One man he has been linked with, as have Manchester United and Arsenal, is Bayern Munich defender David Alaba.

The 24-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, and played frequently under Guardiola during his spell in charge at the Allianz Arena.

His versatility would also give the City boss greater options at both centre-back and central midfield, and he could call upon his prior working relationship with the Austrian international when attempting a deal in January.

Nonetheless, with Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger also interested, Guardiola must act fast to get his man, as it could be a crucial factor in whether they win the title this season.