Pepe (Real Madrid)
A top target for Manchester City during the summer, Pepe could become a target for them again this January as they consider several options to improve their defence. This highly experienced Portuguese international may be heading towards the twilight of his career, but he looks a great short-term signing to ensure Matija Nastasic isn’t rushed into becoming first choice, with the youngster struggling to reproduce his fine form of last season.
Pellegrini knows Pepe well from his time as manager of Real Madrid, and if the Chilean could manage to bag both him and Casillas, there is no doubt his back four would look in much better shape, with players who will know each other and their manager well. The move failed to go through in the previous transfer window due to disagreements over a fee, but City would be well advised to step up their interest in Pepe this time round and bring in this proven top class defender to the Etihad Stadium.