Pep opens up on KDB Saudi links, Bobb's deal - and Alonso at Anfield...

IN recent press conferences, Pep Guardiola has not been in much of a mood to chat.

- JOE BRAY

After City's win at Bournemouth, he had something to say as he revealed his squad were suffering from fatigue, but generally, he has reflected a manager growing tired himself of regular meetings with the media.

With the fatigue comments in mind, the expectations for the FA Cup preview for the Luton trip were low. But Guardiola has a tendency to surprise, and he was in a far better mood in front of the cameras as he discussed City's 'defining' fixture list in March, Jack Grealish's fitness and how the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal have been celebrating recent results.

In his embargoed section of the press conference, Guardiola was in a similarly chatty form. Asked about Kevin de Bruyne's future and Jurgen Klopp's replacement at Liverpool, he wouldn't comment directly, but what he did say was interesting coming from the City manager.

This is what we learned from Guardiola's press conference:

■ DE BRUYNE TO SAUDI ARABIA LINKS

It was a matter of time before Kevin de Bruyne was the latest superstar to be linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League. He fits the bill as a huge name, over 30 years old, and who may fancy a final big pay-day before retiring. Guardiola told reporters to ask the Belgian himself over the legitimacy of the rumours, but he did insist that he wants his talisman to stay and end his career at the Etihad.

"It's a question for him, I'd love him to stay but I don't know," the manager said. "I heard some links but I don't know if there's an offer, I don't know if Saudi Arabia wants him. I would love him to stay until the end of his career, but everyone is everyone."