Pellegrini heads to La Liga to fix Manchester City’s defence

Manuel Pellegrini first made his name in European football over in Spain and the former Real Madrid and Malaga manager may now be returning to La Liga as he attempts to mend Manchester City’s porous defence.

The Citizens remain the 19/20 favourites to regain the Premier League title they won back in 2012, but in order to do so they will need to improve on their recent defensive record, which has seen them ship 25 goals in 22 games.

While Vincent Kompany and Matija Nastasic continue to impress for the club, question marks remain over the current cover on offer with Joleon Lescott and Martin Demichelis both struggling for form in the English top-flight this term.

And though the club have previously been linked with a move for out-of-contract Benfica centre back Ezequiel Garay, no deal has yet to materialise.

With the clock ticking down to the end of the January transfer window and title rivals Chelsea seemingly out to strengthen their squad this month, another defender remains a priority for the club.

One potential option could be Valencia defender Victor Ruiz Torre, with the 24-year-old impressing for Los Che in La Liga this term, despite their struggles both on and off the pitch.

Manager Miroslave Djukic has already been sacked, while the club currently sit ninth in La Liga, some nine points off a Champions League place.

Valencia’s financial difficulties are already well-documented and it’s these financial burdens which could see the team forced to sell off some of its biggest assets, including Ruiz.

The defender has already been capped at youth level for Spain and having made 48 appearances for the fallen La Liga giants, would bring plenty of big game experience to the Etihad.

Though no price or bid has yet to be mentioned, the defender would most likely only move for a substantial sum having recently signed a five-year contract with Valencia.

But given the financial resources at the disposal of the Manchester club, money is unlikely to be a major obstacle should the club decide to make an approach.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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