Following injuries to Manchester City’s defenders Micah Richards, Vincent Kompany right and Matija Nastasic left, the Premier League runners-up look set to make moves in the transfer market in search for a new defender as cover.

Nastasic may not be out for too long, as reports revealed he’s already back training with the squad. However, he’s said to be nowhere near match-fit, and is likely to still miss their next match against newly-promoted Cardiff City on Sunday.

Real Madrid’s Pepe was said to have been lined up as a potential candidate, but they have yet to make their interest official for the Portuguese international.

Athletico Madrid defender Martin Demichelis is another name said to be on the Manchester City shortlist for potential candidates as centre-back.

City’s Joleon Lescott is the side’s only fit and available face to play at the heart of the defence, which means Manchester City might have to opt for an unfamiliar name to play alongside him for their next game.

Manager Manuel Pellegrini may feel aggrieved centre-back Kolo Toure was released this summer and subsequently joined Liverpool – impressing on his league debut for the side.

It appears unlikely a youth player will be called up to start against Cardiff this weekend, so unless they can bring in an emergency defender, they will be forced to assess their options within the side.

Holding-midfielder Javi Garcia has played at centre-back adequately enough and is the favourite to partner Lescott. He was utilised in that position recently, and may be asked by Pellegrini to fill in once again for the side.

There is no official word Manchester City are actively seeking defenders said to be on their wish list, but they may opt for cover to prepare themselves for any eventuality as they are desperate to win the Premier League title, and can’t afford injuries dictating any potential success this season.