Manchester City's Joe Hart "very sad" to see James Milner leave the club

Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has admitted that he is upset to see James Milner leave the club, but insists that the pair's off-field friendship will continue.

The England international was offered a new deal thought to be worth £165,000 a week, but he opted to reject fresh terms in favour of a free transfer to Liverpool.

"On a personal note, I am very sad to see James go as he is a personal friend," Hart told reporters. "I have enjoyed every moment with him but football is football.

"We have been in the game a long time and it is business, his decision and the club's decision. I wish him all the best as he is a fantastic player but that is not the end of me and him. We have our personal relationship off the pitch."

Meanwhile, City have reportedly had a £25m bid for Raheem Sterling rejected by Liverpool.