Manchester City are a team that could do with strengthening their defence if they are to be taken seriously in Mancini's claim that a top-four finish is top priority this year with the club's first League title in 42 years expected next year. It's no surprise then, that out of favour Ivan Cordoba of Inter Milan are their main target this January.



Chelsea, despite claims from Ancelotti that he will run naked through the London snow if he makes a signing this January, have been linked with a £40 million move for Atletico Madrid's 21 year-old Sergio Aguero. Although the defence remains untouched by the African Cup of Nations, Chelsea could certainly do with some added firepower to start the new year with the loss of Drogba, Essien, Mikel and Kalou. The manager has mentioned, too, that the team are suffering a crisis in confidence which could cost them the League if not dealt with swiftly, and a signing ahead of their postponed transfer ban could bring them much-needed momentum.



Liverpool, who find themselves 7th in the Premier League, are said to be chasing Goran Pandev of Lazio fame, Carlton Cole of West Ham who, although loath to do so, will need to sell to stay afloat, and Victor Moses of Crystal Palace. Barcelona and Arsenal are among the other clubs who are interested in the 19 year old English forward, and Benitez' intention will be to get the offer in early on (something he is not known to often do). It seems that Rafa Benitez is at last accepting the need for some help for Fernando Torres up front...