Manchester City are fighting to keep James Milner from going to Arsenal or Liverpool this summer.

City believe an offer of a new contract worth up to £160,000 a week and Milner’s increased game time this season is evidence of how much the 29-year-old is wanted.

Roma also have interest in Milner, though he appears to prefer to remain in England.

Although he would like to play in central midfield and his opportunities there have proved limited this season, Pellegrini has continually praised Milner in public. In March the manager told the Guardian: “Milner’s a phenomenon, a guy with big balls and a heart this big. Intelligent, great mentality, one of those players that when you leave him out you’re left with this feeling of injustice – it hurts because he should always play but sometimes you need a technical player with other characteristics.

“I hope he stays. If he doesn’t it will be because there’s an important offer. I’m Milner’s No1 fan. Find me a more complete English player. There are players who are better technically, yes. Quicker players, yes. Players who head better, yes. But show me one who does all the things Milner does well. There isn’t one.”