Manchester City round-up: Caballero set for new deal; striker makes statement on future; Gundogan’s rallying cry

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According to exclusive reports in The Sun, Manchester City goalkeeper Willy Caballero is set to be offered a new deal by manager Pep Guardiola after an impressive end to the season.

The 35-year-old is out of a contract now the Premier League season has come to a close but it is believed that his solid displays in the run-in have secured him a short-term extension.

However, the report claims that the veteran Argentine won’t accept any terms, unless he gets assurance from Guardiola that he will remain as City’s chosen number one next season.

With Claudio Bravo set to remain at the Etihad Stadium despite struggling in his debut season in England, and Joe Hart’s move away seemingly imminent, the Spaniard could be tempted to delve into the market and invest in a new goalkeeper – but this would signal the end for Caballero.

The Argentine has kept ten clean sheets in 27 appearances this season, including three in City’s last six Premier League games, as Guardiola’s side secured Champions League football for next season.

Meanwhile, out-of-favour Manchester City forward Kelechi Iheanacho has vowed that he will remain at the Etihad this summer despite recent rumours linking him with a move away.

Reports in Goal over the past day had suggested that the promising 20-year-old could be on his way to Premier League rivals to join up with Slaven Bilic on a season-long loan for next year.

And, despite Iheanacho being expected to play second-fiddle again next season, behind Gabriel Jesus and Sergio Aguero, he insisted that he’s going nowhere.

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, the Nigerian said:

“I’m not very aware of that.

“I just keep working with the team and I’m still at Manchester City so I’ll meet up with the boys and kick off the season with Manchester City.

“I’m happy to stay at Manchester City and keep fighting to help them achieve what they want to achieve.”

Iheanacho managed 20 Premier League starts this season, scoring four times, but was only afforded five starts by manager Pep Guardiola in a frustrating second season at the Etihad.

In other news, Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has issued a rallying cry ahead of his return to the side next season, urging the Citizens to dream big.

The German international has been out since December after suffering knee ligament damage against Watford but has been stepping up recovery in recent weeks ahead of a pre-season return.

Speaking with the Manchester Evening News about his time out, he said:

“Personally, it’s been a tough time. As soon as I neared 100% fitness, I was struck by an injury.

“Being in the gym six days a week, instead of working with the team can be frustrating at times.

“My dreams are big, my will is unbroken. I will be back. See you next season! Come on City!”

Gundogan was Pep Guardiola’s first signing upon arrival at the Etihad last summer and made an immediate impression on his way to scoring three goals in ten Premier League appearances.

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