Recruitment Team: Eleven City incomings and outgoings transfers that could happen before deadline

Attacking midfielder

Steve Cooper’s been clear. He wants an attacking midfielder, somebody who can replace Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Celtic’s Matt O’Riley looks to be out of reach, but someone in that mould would fit into the team well.

Striker

Cooper was coy not to push too hard in admitting he wants a new striker, in case he does not get one and has to stick with Patson Daka and Tom Cannon vying with Jamie Vardy. But in an ideal world, City will have a new frontman by the end of the month. Chelsea’s David Datro Fofana has been linked most recently, but it’s possible City’s name has been planted to generate interest in the Ivorian.

Central midfielder

In the deeper midfield roles, City look a little light on depth, and would be in trouble should Harry Winks get injured. A solid all-rounder to be back-up to, or to play alongside, the former Tottenham man would be welcome, especially if Boubakary Soumare leaves.

Full-back

With Ricardo Pereira and James Justin in the squad, City don’t necessarily need a starter at full-back, but a new recruit to provide competition would be handy. However, it feels the least important of all the potential incoming deals, and so it would not be a surprise if City stuck to what they have at full-back.

Outgoings

Harry Souttar

He was left out of the squad for the friendly against Palermo because of the number of other centre-backs available to Cooper, and then he didn’t travel to Germany. The writing is on the wall for the Australia international, who has been linked with a loan switch to Sheffield United and Rangers.

Ben Nelson

For academy graduate Ben Nelson, there’s a similar situation. He’s got four centre-backs ahead of him in the pecking order, and so would perhaps be best served out on loan in the Championship for a season. There’s plenty of interest in him, so City wouldn’t struggle to find him a temporary home.

Kasey McAteer

If City get a new wide-man through the door, that could open up the possibility of Kasey McAteer leaving for a year. Hull and Cardiff are the frontrunners for his signature.

Tom Cannon

Equally, if City get a new forward in, then Cannon is the man who could make way. As with Nelson, Championship clubs are eagerly awaiting news from City, hoping to snap up the Republic of Ireland international.

Boubakary Soumare

Cooper’s given him the chance to impress, but Boubakary Soumare may not have done enough. Plus, he could be someone who generates a bit of cash, with Roma and Monaco named as suitors.

Luke Thomas

Not a lot has been seen of the left-back in pre-season, and he seems to be down the pecking order under the new manager. A loan away in a repeat of last season is a possibility.