'He told me' - Pep Guardiola makes bold transfer call on Rico Lewis as Nottingham Forest push hard to sign Man City youngster

Guardiola has suggested that Lewis has informed him directly of his intention to stay at City, but he admitted that things can change quickly in football. The defender has grown in importance since breaking through and remains highly valued at the Etihad amid interest from Forest.

When asked about Lewis' future, Guardiola told reporters: "I think he’s going to stay, I think. He told me that. But, I said, maybe tomorrow, after tomorrow, it’ll change.

“The case from Phil [Foden], or from Rico, or from Nico O’Reilly, I have a special sympathy because they were 16 or 17 years old when [they] arrived here [in the first-team] and started to win Premier Leagues.

"And his [Lewis’] role, when he plays his role, Rico is an extraordinary player. The only problem I have is he’s so small. If he was taller, I would say, 'Oh, what a player'. It’s that. Today, today, I think he’s going to stay, but I don’t know what’s going to happen."

Lewis has been linked with a move away from City throughout the summer transfer window. Nottingham Forest are pushing hard to sign him and are prepared to offer him double his current wages in to lure him away. City, meanwhile, continue to insist they want to keep the versatile academy graduate in their squad.

The Cityzens are expected to resist Forest’s advances, though a significant offer could still test their resolve as they have shown a willingness to cash in on their academy products in the past. Guardiola will hope Lewis continues his development within the squad, providing depth and flexibility. As the transfer window progresses, the young defender’s situation will be one to watch closely.