Wolfsburg confirms talks with Manchester City over Kevin De Bruyne deal

VfL Wolfsburg confirmed negotiations with Manchester City are ongoing as the two sides edge toward a deal that would see Kevin De Bruyne return to England.

The German club's sporting executive, Klaus Allofs, admitted his attempts to extend De Bruyne's stay at Wolfsburg have been futile, but said the team is in no hurry to sell the Belgian international if City fails to meet its asking price.

Speculation over De Bruyne's future has persisted throughout the summer, with City being linked to him throughout much of the transfer season in a deal that could see the Premier League team pay £54 million for his services.

"What is true is that, after long consideration and several attempts to convince Kevin to play at Wolfsburg for another year, we have entered talks with Manchester City," Allofs told reporters.

"As of now, he is a VfL Wolfsburg player, and will train with the squad as normal. We are willing to talk and are open to reaching an agreement, but should they fail to meet our demands, Kevin De Bruyne will remain at Wolfsburg this season. I'd quite like that."

While a move may seem imminent, Wolfsburg manager Dieter Hecking continues to plan for Friday's match against FC Schalke 04 as though De Bruyne will be available for selection.

"I will call up 18 players to our match-day squad, and I'd like to think, at least right now, that Kevin will be part of the squad."

Meanwhile, City appears to be gearing up for the massive purchase by reportedly offloading young midfielder Rony Lopes.