Manchester City have reportedly hatched a plan to replace Rodri for the remainder of the season with Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.

City have struggled extensively since Ballon d'Or winner Rodri suffered a season-ending injury against Arsenal in the Premier League.

Pep Guardiola's team have showcased familiar failings since then with their defensive frailties exposed with alarming regularity.

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With the January transfer window now upon us, the time has come for the Blues to make some much-needed improvements to their squad as they look to secure Champions League football for next season.

Guimaraes has been linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium for the last couple of windows and those rumours have reignited again.

According to Gazetta Dello Sport, the Brazilian is at the top of City's wishlist to supply defensive stability to their midfield.

However, while the Blues' hierarchy are working tirelessly to try and sign the midfielder his £100m price tag is thought to be an issue for the club.

Meanwhile, journalist Fabrizio Romano understands that City have reached a 100 per cent agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt striker Omar Marmoush over a move to the Premier League club.

Guardiola refused to speak about another team's player during his pre-Salford City press conference, saying: "Don't ask me about that because I’m not going (to answer). All month you're going to ask the same about all we are linked with in the media, so I'm not going to talk.

Romano, though, is adamant that the deal will get over the line in January.

The only hurdle standing in the way of City and their man is agreeing a fee with Frankfurt.

However, these talks are thought to be progressing nicely and a formal agreement is expected as soon as next week.