Melbourne City have already begun the international search to find an injury replacement for star striker Bruno Fornaroli, the club's top goalscorer for the past two seasons.

And given their high profile connection with owners Manchester City, the options are plentiful.

Skipper Bruno Fornaroli has dominated goalscoring for City. Credit:AAP

The Melbourne side could look to tap into the City squad for an on-loan replacement or search for another forward who is out of favour at their club and might be interested in securing regular game time over the next four months.

City's scouting network is global - it delivered Fornaroli to them two seasons ago - and new coach Warren Joyce and his management team will also be able to tap into their expertise.