Kevin de Bruyne has rejected a new five-year contract at Man City that will see him earn lower than what he presently makes at the Etihad, as reported by Sport Bible.
And it is understood that the Citizens are looking at the possibility of signing Lionel Messi in the summer and would want to have enough resources to fund the deal.
Reports claim De Bruyne is frustrated with City’s first contract offer but Pep Guardiola has played down the rumours that he is unhappy at the club.
The 29-year-old’s contract at the Etihad ends in the summer 2023 but Guardiola believes he will eventually sign a new contract with the club.
Ahead of City’s Carabao Cup semi-final clash with Man United, the Spanish boss said: “Sometimes we have to respect the process.
“I don’t know what’s going on because I didn’t speak with Txiki [Begiristain] but he knows how we appreciate him, not just as a footballer, as a person – how important he is for the club.
“I’m not worried but in the end of course it’s his decision.”
