Sources: Man City’s transfer plans revealed after Premier League bombshell
Man City are unlikely to bolster their defensive ranks in January as they contend with their huge legal case against the Premier League, sources have told Football Insider.
Bombshell reports on Friday confirmed that an independent panel had found City guilty of breaking 114 of the 115 financial charges brought against them by the Premier League.
The Citizens have maintained their innocence since legal proceedings began in 2023, and they continue to deny all wrongdoing as an appeal process begins.
Focus will soon turn back to their on-field fortunes after the international break, with Enzo Maresca aiming to win silverware in his first season at the helm at the Etihad Stadium.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, they are unlikely to enter the market midway through this season despite concerns over his defensive depth.
Maresca criticised his side's defending as they shipped three goals at home to Sunderland last time out, but remains content with the options at his disposal.
Man City unlikely to sign a new defender in the January window
City did not hold back in the last January transfer window as they signed Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi for a combined initial £82.5million.
Maresca may well be concerned about their defensive security across the campaign, yet other issues are set to stop them entering the market to bolster his backline.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "As a defence, they'll be looking to get more clean sheets, but they're so well stocked defensively they've got two players for each position, really.
"I don't think they'll jump into the transfer market in January to improve their defence, because they've got the players there who can step up and get clean sheets and improve that defensive record. I don't think that will be a priority for Man City in the January window."
Insider reveals likely outcome as City face Premier League charges
City's transfer plans will likely need to be shelved altogether as they battle a string of legal issues away from the pitch.
Fans and pundits have debated what their punishment could be if they are found guilty of over 100 charges after going through the appeal process.
Former Everton and Aston Villa CEO, Keith Wyness, has told Football Insider that City should expect a 50-point deduction next season as their appeal is "certain" to lose.