DEFENCE AT CENTRE OF PEP PLANS

PEP GUARDIOLA has made recruiting a centre-back his priority next month.

The Manchester City boss wants cover for John Stones, Nicolas Otamendi, Vincent Kompany and Eliaquim Mangala.

Skipper Kompany and Stones are sidelined with injuries, prompting Guardiola to act.

City looked at bringing in Jonny Evans (above) from West Brom in the summer and have not ruled out going back in for him when the transfer window opens.

Southampton’s Virgil Van Dijk is another option, as is Real Sociedad’s Inigo Martinez.

Guardiola is also looking for a deep-lying central midfielder in the summer to replace Yaya Toure, who will leave after eight years with City.

Fernandinho, who is out of contract at the end of this season, will be offered a new deal.