Aguero faces talks over his future at City
Sergio Agüero will seek assurances about his role in Pep Guardiola’s plans when he holds talks with the Manchester City manager about his future, amid concerns that reduced playing time next season could jeopardise his World Cup place with Argentina.
Despite having three years left on his contract with City, the striker’s future has been the subject of intense scrutiny during a season in which his relationship with Guardiola has appeared strained. He has been linked with moves to Paris Stgermain, Real Madrid and even Manchester United. Senior City sources insist they want Agüero to stay, but the player – who turns 29 next month – says he has received no such assurances privately.
Given the emergence of young Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus and Guardiola’s desire to sign a pedigree striker, Agüero wants fully to understand where he stands in the manager’s thoughts.
The futures of numerous other players remain unresolved. Although City have confirmed Pablo Zabaleta will leave next month, six other players are out of contract, including Yaya Touré. City are expected to offer the midfielder a 12-month extension, albeit with a substantial cut to his existing £240,000-a-week wages. Touré, 34, is determined to stay in England in the event an agreement cannot be reached with City.
Guardiola wants up to seven new signings, and City’s hopes of enticing Kyle Walker from Tottenham will be boosted by the club’s proximity to the defender’s native Sheffield. West Ham are interested in Nigeria striker Kelechi Iheanacho, whom City would consider selling if they receive offers in excess of £20 million.