Sat May 22, 2021 9:25 am
Manchester City starlet Liam Delap could opt to stay at the club next season to further his development instead of having a season on loan in the Championship.
Cardiff, West Brom and Middlesbrough were all linked with a loan move for the 18-year-old forward, who has impressed at City's youth levels this season.
However, while it was expected that he would seek regular senior football next season, our sister title MEN claim that, while there is interest in him from the Championship, the club could look to keep him to further his development.
"Where Delap will be playing his football next season is yet to be finalised," they write.
"He could yet stay in Manchester to continue his development - aided by the fact he will now be eligible for Champions League games - but equally the improvements he has made to his game this year make him even more equipped for a loan.
"There are not many players physically ready for the Championship at 18 but the interest in him from the division indicates he is an exceptional talent."
Meanwhile, in his press conference on Friday, Pep Guardiola hinted that one or two youth players could be involved in the first team from next season.
"Maybe," he said when asked if youngsters would be promoted next term.
"I won't say because it doesn't help the young boys to go to the media. Normally this age it can confuse than be positive
"It depends on how many players stay, how many leave, how many we sign. There are two or three who will be regularly training with us and involved with the squad."