Bristol City boss Nigel Pearson has made it no secret that he is expecting to have no money to spend in the January transfer window unless the Championship club sell a player. 

They do look in need of some reinforcements, however, as a poor run ahead of the World Cup break has left them just a point above the relegation zone.

It's set to be an interesting winter window, with a number of their exciting young players likely to generate interest from elsewhere.

With that in mind, we've highlighted the ins and outs we could see at City in January...

INS:

Koffi Djidji

The defence continues to be a problem area for the Robins, who have the fifth worst record in the division when it comes to goals conceded and have at times had to field a makeshift back three that includes multiple full-backs.

Even with Kal Naismith and Tomas Kalas hopefully back fit soon, it would not be a surprise to see Pearson look to draft in a new centre-back in an attempt to solve those issues.

Reports in Italy (Sportsmediaset.it via Sport Witness) have indicated that City are one of the sides interested in Torino defender Koffi Djidji.

The 29-year-old's contract is up at the end of the season and we may see the South West club look to capitalise on that – though as the manager has highlighted a sale would have to happen first.

Conor Coventry

A lack of numbers in midfield is another issue that City may look to solve – particularly if the out-of-favour Han-Noah Massengo departs in January.

Another body is needed in that area as Matty James has had injury issues during his Ashton Gate tenure, Joe Williams has to be carefully managed, Alex Scott is still just 19, there is a clear drop-off when Andy King starts, and youngsters like Dylan Kadji aren't quite ready yet.

One option could be Conor Coventry as West Ham United have told the 22-year-old he is free to find a new club in the upcoming window, according to Football Insider.

Coventry is expected to be available for a cut-price fee as his contract expires in the summer and he impressed while on loan at MK Dons last season so he could make a very smart addition.

As with Djidji, however, a sale would likely have to be made for such a move to be possible.

OUTS

Antoine Semenyo

There has been speculation about the future of City forward Antoine Semenyo in recent windows and it appears there will be interest again in January.

Rangers have been linked recently with a move for the 22-year-old, who is said to be a target of Celtic as well, while Football League World understands Crystal Palace are also considering a move.

Semenyo's contract is set to expire in the summer and there is the option of a one-year extension but with other areas of the squad needing reinforcement, City may feel that they have to entertain any significant offers for the Ghana international.

Han-Noah Massengo 

Han-Noah Massengo is out of contract in the summer and has not agreed terms on a new deal despite being offered one by the South West club previously.

He's fallen out of favour at Ashton Gate and you feel they would love to cash in during the January window to avoid losing him for a nominal compensation fee in the summer instead.

Whether there will be enough interest remains to be seen – particularly as he will be able to sign a pre-contract with foreign clubs in January.

Alex Scott

It feels like only a matter of time before Robins rising star Alex Scott gets snapped up by a big club and one may come calling in January.

He's been linked with a move to the Premier League in previous windows and though there is still plenty of time left on his current deal, a large offer would be something City have to consider given their current financial situation.

Scott is surely the player that the Ashton Gate outfit would most like to keep the most but every player has their price.