Blues open talks over new Vinny deal

AJ, WILDER, USYK AND WHYTE ALL IN LINE /PAGE 49 BLUES TALKING BUSINESS OVER NEW KOMPANY DEAL

CITY are discussing a new contract for skipper Vincent Kompany.

Manager Pep Guardiola has thrown his weight behind offering the 32-year-old Belgium international a new deal as his current one runs out at the end of the season.

Kompany has made 14 appearances in this campaign, after becoming one of the stalwarts of the title-winning Blues team last season – just when it seemed Guardiola’s patience with his injury troubles was running out.

And the fact that he was picked for last week’s showdown with Liverpool proved the manager still has faith in his football abilities as well as recognising his leadership qualities.

Kompany could step back into the team for the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against League One side Burton Albion tonight.

And Guardiola revealed that discussions about offering him a new deal – probably a one-year extension, like that given to Yaya Toure, have already taken place.

“We are considering it, we are talking about that,” he said. “I would like it. He’s our captain, 11 years here.

“We saw in the last two games the huge quality and personality he has to play, the only problem with Vincent is one – his injury problems.”

Guardiola even hinted that Kompany may have regained his place as first choice ahead of John Stones, who has been the preferred partner for Aymeric Laporte so far.

“One against one absolutely we’re better when Vincent plays,” he said.

“Laporte has a better left foot. Every central defender has his own quality but there’s no doubt Vincent has something special with his charisma, winning the duels.

“It’s incredible, he’s one of the best central defenders I’ve ever seen. The problem is whether he’s fit.”