Manchester City are reportedly set to offer Fernandinho a new contract as an assurance that the midfielder still has a part to play.
The Brazil international, currently away on Copa America duty, faces increased competition for a starting spot next season following the club-record signing of Rodri this week.
Fernandinho is into the final year of his existing deal and 2019-20 was expected to be his last at the Etihad Stadium, but The Sun claims that he could yet stay on.
City boss Pep Guardiola supposedly feels that the 34-year-old still has plenty to offer and his versatility - he can also fill in at the back - is also considered a massive positive.
A club source is quoted as saying: "Everyone assumed a new midfielder coming in meant the end for Fernandinho.
"But that's not the case as Pep knows what he brings both on and off the field."
Fernandinho, a £34m signing from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013, made 27 appearances for the Citizens last time out.
Daniel Lewis
