Manchester City have enacted something of a rebuild across the last two transfer windows and could now be set to continue their spending spree once the January window opens, according to a report.
Manchester City look to overcome mixed Premier League start
Despite making some impressive summer signings, Manchester City have lost consecutive Premier League fixtures against Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton & Hove Albion.
Pep Guardiola has changed the guard in several positions and may need time to let new faces settle in at the Etihad Stadium, albeit he will be hoping for an improved return on the club's investments after the international break.
Manchester City's Erling Haaland shakes hands with manager Pep Guardiola after being substituted
Manchester City's Erling Haaland shakes hands with manager Pep Guardiola after being substituted
Still, Joe Cole preserves optimism that one of Manchester City's main men can go on to thrive this campaign and has claimed that Phil Foden is the best player in the Premier League when he is in form.
The former England international told talkSPORT: "He had a difficult season last year. We don’t know the problems he had off the pitch or injuries or what it was, but what you have to do is keep faith with these types of players.
“When Phil Foden plays to the best of his ability, like the season before last, he’s the best player in the country, you know, but there’s only one player who can produce that type of level of performance over the last 15 years consistently. That’s Lionel Messi. And there’s a reason he’s the greatest player in the world."
Intriguingly, Guardiola could add a new superstar to the fold amid Manchester City's plan to launch an ambitious move to sign Vinicius Junior in January, albeit it remains to be seen whether they could tempt him away from the Spanish top-flight.
Remaining on that topic, the Citizens could be set to raid La Liga for a rising young star who could now have a pivotal decision to make on his future.
Man City could launch January move for Dro Fernandez
According to reports in Spain, Manchester City want to sign Barcelona talent Pedro 'Dro' Fernandez, who is viewed as a breakout star in his homeland after entering La Blaugrana's second string at 17 years of age.
Predominantly an attacking midfielder, the Spain Under-17 star is also wanted by Chelsea and has registered four goals in 14 appearances for club and country at various youth levels.
Adored by Hansi Flick for his contribution during Barcelona's pre-season, he has already got off the mark at first-team level by scoring in a friendly against Vissel Kobe, potentially opening the door to further senior opportunities down the line.
Nevertheless, he now faces an intriguing decision amid interest from the Premier League, which could force his club to offer him a contract extension with guarantees that his developmental needs will be met.
Guardiola always has an eye out for prodigious talent and may have spotted an opening to convince one of Europe's stars to move to the Etihad Stadium.