Manchester City are fighting on all fronts and could now take an unexpected direction in their hunt for defensive reinforcements under Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City suffer Josko Gvardiol injury frustration
At an unfortunate stage in the campaign, the Citizens have been depleted by Josko Gvardiol's recent injury, which is set to keep him out for a few weeks as they continue their Premier League title charge.
He said before his side took on Brighton & Hove Albion: "Josko and Ruben will be back soon and John as well and the players from Afcon will be back. We will survive this moment and period and go for the next one. I am so confident and positive that we will do it."
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola celebrates after the match-3
Of course, Nathan Ake is someone who possibly won't be able to play every game during a hefty fixture period, especially factoring in the return of Champions League football alongside the Citizens' FA Cup exploits.
With than in mind, Manchester City have recalled Max Alleyne from his loan at Watford. Meanwhile, they could also step up their interest in Marc Guehi after Antoine Semenyo lands at the Etihad Stadium.
Snapping the England international up on a free transfer would be regarded as excellent business. Albeit, the Crystal Palace star has interest from plenty of rival clubs as he looks to take his excellent form into the World Cup.
Strengthening in defence definitely appears to be on Guardiola's radar, and he could now be set to make a surprise move to add steel to his backline.
Man City could bring Callum Doyle back to the Etihad Stadium
According to reports in Spain, Manchester City are willing to bid £30 million to bring Callum Doyle back from Wrexham, potentially creating a scenario where he returns to compete for a starting slot under Guardiola.
Said to have impressed in Wales courtesy of his ability to progress play from deep, the 22-year-old has racked up 16 appearances this term and has previously been labelled a "class act" by former teammate Shane Duffy.
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He's already working on an exit.
Wrexham hold leverage due to the fact Doyle is under contract until 2029. Regardless, Gvardiol's injury and the fact Ake and John Stones are ageing proves there is room for a younger profile to push established stars already on the books.
Manchester City know they can't afford to slip up in the hunt for the Premier League title, hence why it may make sense to recruit across their rearguard to ensure there isn't a major drop-off in quality when injuries and absences occur over the coming weeks and months.