Jose Mourinho has publicly questioned the mentality of Kevin De Bruyne ahead of a possible move by Manchester City with Wolfsburg.

De Bruyne could be bought by City for over £55 million.

Mourinho sold the 24-year-old to Wolfsburg 18 months ago for £18 million and watched him help his new side to second in the Bundesliga behind Bayern Munich in a season laden with an impressive 10 goals and 22 assists.

De Bruyne complained about his treatment by Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho rejects that he was the reason for his failure to play a key role at the club. “That is unfair because I wanted to keep him,” said Mourinho. “And he told me it was not in his personality to be competing for a position in the team. He needed a team where he knows he can play every game. He needs to know that he is important.

“He did not want a team where he thinks am I playing or not? He needs that trust, he needs that quality. He needs that security. So I was not happy when he left. So yes it’s not fair.”

Chelsea won the league last year without De Bruyne.

“So yes, I accept that if this is his mentality and it’s his choice to go, it is better for Chelsea to make a good deal. Chelsea made a good deal and he was happy to go and I am happy because the kid is a good kid. And I am happy for him

“Players have different circumstances. We sold him, made our money and it was fantastic because we bought him cheap and sold him for a fantastic price. And now Wolfsburg, if they make a fantastic deal, that is good for them.”