Nico Gonzalez issued an update on his Manchester City aims at the start of the month.
Nico Gonzalez declared earlier this month that he is prepared to fight for his place at Manchester City.
Newcastle United are interested in the Spaniard as a potential Bruno Guimaraes replacement. He is understood to be one of several options the Magpies have shortlisted going into the final 15 days of the window.
A midfield rebuild at the Etihad has resulted in Rodri and Bernardo Silva joining Barcelona. Elliot Anderson has arrived, with City also chasing Moroccan wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi.
‘I’m happy here’ - Nico Gonzalez
Naturally, that casts doubt on Gonzalez’s future “I’m happy here. I don’t want to leave and I think the club wants me to stay. I haven’t seen anything, but I’m happy here.
“I don’t think any player has the position guaranteed for all the matches. Everyone has to work hard.
“We are one of the best teams in the world and obviously there is competition in every position. That is what makes us be in the position that we are, winning so many Premier Leagues and competing for everything.”
More creativity?
Elsewhere, there is a growing feeling within St James’ Park that Jaissle requires more creativity in forward areas. Nick Woltemade, Yoane Wissa and Joe Willock played as the No.10 during pre-season - none of whom are natural operators in the position.
A lack of spark from out wide and in midfield last season - Guimaraes aside - was a major concern for supporters. Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon, Jacob Murphy and Anthony Elanga managed just four Premier League assists.
For now, Guimaraes’ successor is Newcastle’s top priority. But the focus will likely shift to a creative spark - whether that be out wide or in the No.10 - in the closing stages of the window.
‘I’m happy here’ - Nico Gonzalez has already sent Newcastle United message amid £45m Man City links
‘I’m happy here’ - Nico Gonzalez has already sent Newcastle United message amid £45m Man City links