Vincent Kompany has always been a major player at Manchester City since arriving in 2008.
He is a perfect example of someone who has gone from a high quality to world class after becoming one of the best centre-backs in Europe.
One thing which has held him back, however, is his injuries.
Since arriving at City, Kompany has suffered from 14 calf injuries and 4 this season alone, his most recent being in the 0-0 draw to Dynamo Kiev last Tuesday.
Along with the numerous hamstring problems suffered by the Belgian, some City fans are beginning to question whether Kompany should stay at the Etihad.
With Pep Guardiola’s arrival this summer, the Spaniard might decide to let Kompany go not just because of his injury record, but, also, his age which is 29.
If Guardiola does decide to get rid of someone who has been a major part of City’s success, then, he will immediately have some players lined up who could replace him.
Jason Denayer
Jason Denayer may not be a recognised name amongst City fans, but, he is someone who City could have used this season.
A Belgian international, Denayer has been a very promising player and many expected him to be a part of the City first team this season.
Instead, he was sent to Galatasaray on loan without a recall option and with City’s defensive problems this season, he could have been the solution.
Along with his physical power and size, Denayer would be a great choice to fill the hole left by Kompany.
John Stones
John Stones has been a player linked with City for the past few transfer windows and his name is still being mentioned as a possible new arrival at the Etihad this summer.
At the age of 21, Stones is at the perfect age to move to a big club and it is likely that Everton will have to cash in on one of their prized assets, City have the financial resources to buy the England centre back.
Plus, with the oppurtunity to work with Guardiola, what else could a young English player ask for.
Thiago Silva
This is a wild card choice, but still performing at a top level in the Champions League and Ligue 1 at the age of 31 has proved why Thiago Silva is one of the best centre-backs in the world right now.
If City were interested in the Brazilian, they would have to pay an astronomical fee, but with his ability to play out from the back, he would be a great player to add some experience to City’s back four.
Mats Hummels
Mats Hummels has been a player frequently linked with Manchester United, but now with Guardiola arriving on the blue side of Manchester, the German has been touted as a possible signing for City.
Hummels is someone who is experienced both domestically and internationally and will be able to command the back four.
If City were to get Hummels, it will have to be for large fee, but a player of his calibre will be worth every penny.