Cheikhou Kouyate has played down reports linking him with Manchester City.

Although the Blues remain well in the hunt for Premier League glory this season, Roberto Mancini is already making plans for next term.

And it is believed the Italian coach has set his sights on a deal for Kouyate, having had the defensive midfield player watched in recent weeks.

However, the 22-year-old Anderlecht star has dismissed a possible move, saying: “I’m not yet ready to join a team like City. I’ll probably be ready within a year or two.”

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