Manchester City can't afford to spend much in January - Pellegrini

The reigning Premier League champions fell foul of Financial Fair Play rules last year and the manager says that not much can be done to improve a squad three points behind Chelsea

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini doubts that his side will do much business in the January transfer window as they "have restrictions on money".

The reigning Premier League champions have spent extensively in recent years since their acquisition by Abu Dhabi United Group but were sanctioned for breaches of Uefa’s Financial Fair Play rules this year.

"No, I don't think we will be busy," Pellegrini told reporters on Wednesday of his plans for the window. "We have restrictions on money."

One successful summer arrival was that of Frank Lampard on loan from New York City FC and the Chilean is hopeful of extending the former England international's stay beyond its initially agreed end date of January, adding: "I hope [he will be with us] until the end of the season."

City could still sell one or two fringe players, with Pellegrini confirming that they would be willing to move on Matija Nastasic and Scott Sinclair if buyers come forward.

"If they have another option [in January] that is good for them and the club, we will see," he said.

Pellegrini's side end 2014 three points behind league leaders Chelsea, with Sunderland their visitors on New Year's Day, and the manager is keen to use that game as a springboard for an even better 2015.

He continued: "I hope we start the New Year winning three points. [Sunderland are] a good team with a good manager. They have strong players.

"In general, [2014] has been successful. We have the next five months now to continue to improve the way we play."

Influential midfielder Yaya Toure will be available to take on the Black Cats, Pellegrini explained, before leaving on January 5 to participate in the Africa Cup of Nations with Ivory Coast, though Edin Dzeko and captain Vincent Kompany remain on the sidelines with injury.