Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that influential midfielder Kevin de Bruyne will remain at the club.
De Bruyne has been the subject of significant speculation regarding a potential summer move to Saudi Arabia.
With one year left on his contract with the Blues, De Bruyne mentioned last month that he would have to consider an offer from the Saudi Pro-League due to the “incredible money” on offer.
Despite this, Guardiola is not worried.
“Kevin isn’t leaving,” he told reporters before his side’s opening pre-season game against Celtic in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, on Wednesday (00:30 BST).
De Bruyne played a pivotal role in helping City secure their fourth consecutive Premier League title last season, marking his sixth title with the club.
Crystal Palace’s England Euro 2024 squad member Eberechi Eze has been linked with a move to City, while Brazil goalkeeper Ederson has also attracted interest from Saudi Arabia.
However, Guardiola believes it is more likely that he will retain the same squad as last season.
“If someone leaves, we are going to talk about that and, of course, until the last day [of the transfer window] we have chances,” he said.
“I don’t rule out new players as an option, but I think there is an 85, 90, 95% chance we will have the same squad.”
City begin their Premier League title defence at Chelsea on 18 August.