Pep Guardiola's Man City future takes another twist after England contact amid Arsenal title race

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's contract expires at the end of this season and it is currently unclear where his future lies beyond that

Pep Guardiola is reportedly leaning toward extending his contract by a further year at Manchester City despite interest from England in his services.

Guardiola has been a thorn in Arsenal's side in recent years after his City team managed to pip the Gunners to the Premier League title twice in as many seasons. However, there was some optimism among the North London club's fanbase on Monday that the City boss would not be tormenting the Premier League for much longer.

The Times were the first to report that England had sounded out Guardiola at the start of the season about the potential of succeeding Gareth Southgate. This approach was described as informal and no decision had been made yet by the Catalonian.

The Telegraph has since corroborated those reports but adds a word of caution to those hoping that Guardiola is soon on his way out of City. They claim that the six-time Premier League winner is currently leaning towards signing an extension with the Manchester club that would take him up to a decade in charge.

The report adds that Guardiola is not willing to be rushed into a decision and that his mind is not yet set on any eventuality. It is believed money will not be a deciding factor in his decision as he accepts that a national team manager cannot feasibly attract the same salary as a domestic head coach.

Moving into international football is thought to be appealing to Guardiola and England would be a good proposition considering his relationship with most of the squad. The 53-year-old is also happy in the country which could sway a decision.

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