Vitor Reis is poised to stay at Manchester City as the fifth centre back, while Juma Bah is set for another spell away from the Etihad, with Ipswich Town linked to the defender.
Reis impresses on pre-season tour
The 20-year-old Brazilian travelled on the pre-season tour of Asia and spent last season on loan at Girona. He made clear his intent to fight for a spot in the City squad this season, and manager Enzo Maresca has been suitably impressed with the young defender.
Reis looks poised to remain at the Etihad past deadline day, though no guarantees can be set, such is the nature of the transfer window.
Bah linked with Ipswich move
Juma Bah was another candidate for the fifth centre back slot, having spent the past two seasons playing in France with Lens and Nice. But he was left out of the tour squad and was not present at City's open training session on Thursday amid links with a move to Premier League new boys Ipswich Town.
Bah's departure would follow the loan exit of Max Alleyne, who left City on a season-long deal for Burnley this week.
Other defensive options
City also have Stephen Mfuni as an option, with the 18-year-old impressing at Watford in the Championship in the second half of last season before injury prematurely ended his campaign. Watford are keen to re-sign the centre back, who can also play at left back, for next term.
At centre back, City are settled and well-stocked, with Ruben Dias poised to captain the side against Arsenal in the Community Shield, while Marc Guehi, Abdukodir Khusanov and Josko Gvardiol are excellent options in the middle of the backline.
