At the turn of the year, Phil Foden will be heading into the final 18 months of his current Manchester City deal - but the club are determined to make sure there is no chance of him leaving.
It has not been the easiest 12 months for Foden, who struggled to rediscover his best form after Euro 2024.
Yet recent performances suggest he is clicking back into gear, with his midweek display against Huddersfield underlining that his sharpness and influence are returning.
This weekend’s clash with Burnley offers another chance to show he is edging back towards his peak.
The 25-year-old’s contract is due to expire in 2027, but sources have confirmed that early discussions are opening with all parties.
City want to extend his stay well beyond that date, ensuring his prime years are spent at the Etihad.
Behind the scenes, there is genuine hope that Foden can become a rare modern-day one-club player.
Having joined City’s academy at the age of eight and developed into a key figure under Pep Guardiola, he is viewed not just as a talent but as part of the club’s identity.
A fresh deal would lock him in through what should be the defining stage of his career, and City are preparing to step up negotiations in the coming weeks.
For them, keeping Foden tied down is as much about safeguarding their future as it is about rewarding one of their own.
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