Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly adamant Ilkay Gundogan should remain at the club beyond this season.
The captain's contract at the Etihad Stadium expires at the end of the campaign and so far he has not signed a new deal. Reports have previously suggested Barcelona are interested in adding him to their squad.
Xavi is understood to see Gundogan as an ideal replacement for Sergio Busquets who confirmed he would be leaving the Camp Nou this week. However, Football Insider understands Guardiola is pushing the powers that be to renew the 32-year-old's agreement with City.
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Guardiola has previously made it clear he is a fan of Gundogan's leadership qualities but he has mentioned the final decision regarding the German will be made by the club and not him solely. The media outlet's sources add the Catalan boss is heavily involved in the negotiation process and is keen to see his midfielder stay.
Elsewhere, City are understood to be keeping a close eye on Nottingham Forest winger Brennan Johnson. The 21-year-old has adapted well to life in the Premier League and has scored ten goals so far in the East Midlands.
According to Football Transfers, this has led to the Blues, Aston Villa and Newcastle United tracking the Welsh international. But, Forest boss Steve Cooper is eager to keep the talented youngster and the board is willing to reject offers in the summer.
However, it is claimed this task will become more difficult for Forest should they be relegated to the Championship. Currently Cooper's men sit three points above the drop zone and Johnson has three years left on his deal.
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