Manchester City 'hopeful of persuading James Milner to stay'

Manchester City are reportedly hopeful that they will convince James Milner to stay at the club following reports that the midfielder is considering his future.

The 28-year-old, who has been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool, is said to be frustrated with his lack of regular playing time at the Etihad Stadium.

The England international made just three Champions League starts and 12 in the Premier League last season, which ended in City lifting the Capital One Cup and being crowned English champions for the second time in three years.

According to the Manchester Evening News, City officials believe that they will persuade Milner to stay by offering the player a new four-year contract this summer.

Reports have claimed that Edin Dzeko, Aleksandar Kolarov, Samir Nasri and goalkeeper Joe Hart will also be offered new deals in the coming months.