'Pain in the heart' - Pep Guardiola insists he'll 'understand' if Ederson leaves Man City amid Saudi Pro League transfer interest

Ederson is reportedly keen on a move away from Citythis summer amid links with a Saudi Pro League transfer. The 30-year-old may face a tough battle to keep the No.1 spot ahead of Stefan Ortega next season and although the Brazilian was touched by Guardiola saying he would "love" the stopper to stay, his future may lie away from the Etihad. Now, the City manager has reiterated his desire for Ederson to stay put, but will have no hard feelings if he departs.

He told TNT Sports: "I’d like Éderson to decide his future as soon as possible. I only hope for him to stay with us. He’s a person I love, who I want. He’s a ‘porterazo’ (great goalkeeper). If he has to go… with all the pain in the heart, I’ll understand.”

Ederson has played 332 times for City since signing from Benfica in 2017 and he has helped them win a host of Premier League titles, FA Cups and Carabao Cups, along with the Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup. However, his powers may be waning as his error count increases and it may be best for both parties to part ways this summer.

Ederson's City side continue their pre-season campaign against Chelsea on August 3, before taking on Manchester United in the Community Shield at Wembley seven days later. They begin the new Premier League season on August 18 away to Chelsea.