Manchester City have paused contract talks with midfield maestro Kevin de Bruyne while the Belgian recovers from his most recent injury.

The 32-year-old hobbled off on the opening day of the Premier League season after tweaking the same hamstring that saw him hooked in the Champions League final earlier in the year.

His current deal is set to expire in 2025 and any extension is currently off the table until he recovers from surgery.

The Daily Star report that Pep Guardiola is keen to keep the technician at the Etihad but wants him to focus on his rehabilitation before resuming talks.

A two-year extension has reportedly been proposed by the Premier League champions that would see De Bruyne remain with the Citizens until 2027.

His current deal, worth £375,000 a week, makes him one of the highest-paid players in the top flight.

For City, the No17 has made 240 Premier League appearances, scoring 64 goals and grabbing 102 assists.

The five-time domestic champion remains a valuable asset in Manchester and is still likely to extend his stay despite the current delay.

In other news

Arsenal are considering selling Thomas Partey in January, with Juventus a likely destination for the midfielder, according to Football Insider.

The same source claim that Everton are still interested in Leeds forward Wilfried Gnonto and will try to sign him again when the transfer window reopens.

SPORT suggest that LaLiga champions Barcelona are interested in Manchester United outcast Jadon Sancho but would struggle to meet his wage demands.