Manuel Pellegrini: 'Manchester City need to sign a big player'

Manuel Pellegrini has hinted that Manchester City will need to buy a big-name player if they are to challenge for domestic and European honours.

The Blues have seen their Premier League hopes slip away in recent weeks, dropping to fourth in the table due to results over the Easter period.

Speaking ahead of the Citizens' visit to Crystal Palace on Monday night, Pellegrini suggested that his team's trophy credentials will be boosted by signing a top player.

He told reporters: "It is just the way of thinking, that big teams need to sign a big player. It is very difficult to do it every year – but every two years you must do it.

"I'm not just talking about Manchester City. You see Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea, Barcelona and Bayern Munich – all the big clubs – all do it. It is important to have big names.

"I repeat it is very difficult to do it every year but it is important to do it after two years and you must try always to improve your squad. I'm talking about all big teams, not especially Manchester City."

City can return to second place in the table with a win over the Eagles.