Pep Guardiola insists Kevin de Bruyne has NO buyout clause despite reports of £223m pricetag
The star midfielder committed to a long-term future at the Etihad, but Guardiola insists the contract does not include a clause like other club's insist on
PEP GUARDIOLA has responded to reports of a large release clause in Kevin de Bruyne's contract by shutting down the claims.
He did, however, send a warning to any clubs that want to secure the services of Man City's star player, by saying they would have to meet an asking price of €250m (£223m) if they want to buy the midfielder.
Speaking at a press conference in Manchester, ahead of his side's clash with newly promoted Fulham, Guardiola stated that a Spanish journalist had misunderstood a discussion they had about the Belgian superstar's contract.
Guardiola's comments reiterated his sentiments that the midfield maestro is not for sale.
He said: "He doesn't have a release clause in his contract, despite what was reported, but of course he's a great player."
The Belgium international is currently sidelined after suffering lateral knee ligament damage and his side hope he will return to action in October.
The 27-year-old was a key member of Guardiola's team that ran riot in the Premier League last season, achieving a record-breaking 100 points.
But there appears to be enough depth in the squad to cover him while he recovers from injury, as City have already bagged eleven goals so far this season,
In the Premier League alone, De Bruyne managed eight goals and 16 assists which drew praise from people across the football world.
His performance at the World Cup was similarly as impressive and he helped his side to a bronze medal finish.
In January, it appeared the midfielder had committed himself to the club, and Guardiola's master plan, by signing a new long-term deal.
The midfield maestro signed a five-year deal worth around £260,000 a week.
Upon signing the contract, De Bruyne said: "I am really happy to have signed this new deal.
"As I've said previously, my intention has always been to stay here at City, where I've felt at home from day one.
"Not only are we winning- we are playing great football. It's been a pleasure to be part of and I'm really excited about what we can achieve in the coming years."