Man City make decision on 'relegation escape clauses' as £150m spree takes shape

Manchester City are reportedly not backing their £150million attack on the transfer market with relegation clauses as a safety measure during their ongoing legal battle with the Premier League.

The Premier League champions face being kicked out of the top flight via a massive points deduction if they are found guilty of any of the 130 most serious charges against them.

A ruling from an independent tribunal on the matter is expected in the spring after a 12-week hearing. City have continually maintained their innocence throughout the saga.

They have also remained firm that it is business as usual at the Etihad – despite rumors that they will have to provide guarantees to new signings or current players signing new contracts to protect against the worst of the case.

Mirror Football understands no such arrangement has been implemented as the Blues have launched a rebuild of Pep Guardiola's flagging side by agreeing a £33.6m deal for the Uzbek international defender from Lens, Abdukodir Khusanov.

Khusanov, 20, will be one of five potential arrivals during the January transfer window. Young Argentine playmaker Claudio Eccheverri has already joined a deal that could potentially earn River Plate £21.75million, despite having received clearance from City to play for his country in the upcoming South Championship. American under 20.

City are also reportedly considering a move for Eintracht Frankfurt's Egyptian striker Omar Marmoush, who is valued at £60 million, and have reportedly received a £42 million price tag from Brazilian club Palmeiras for their young defender Vitor Reiss.

The Blues are also looking for a midfielder to fill the void left by Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is out for the season with a cruciate injury.

Atalanta's Ederson has emerged as a potential target, amid doubts over Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi's willingness to make a move to the Premier League after turning down Liverpool last summer.

Former Aston Villa player Douglas Luiz is also being considered for a loan move, although Juventus are said to be more interested in a permanent deal for the Brazilian.