Thursday's Man City transfer talk: Nunez, Stones, Griezmann

The buildup to the summer transfer window has now begun, with rumours and speculation continuing to swirl as Manchester City eye possible reinforcements.

The 2018-19 champions did not bring in a single player during the January transfer window, despite suffering a defensive shortage for much of the campaign so far.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up the latest news on possible comings and goings at the Etihad.

Thursday morning's Manchester City transfer talk news roundup:

Kevin De Bruyne agent rubbishes Man City exit talk

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The agent of Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has rubbished suggestions that the 29-year-old could seek an exit from the Etihad this summer.

Following City's proposed two-year ban from European football, the futures of several of their most prized assets have been called into question.

De Bruyne is one of those players who has been linked with a move away from the Etihad in recent weeks, but the Belgian's agent Patrick De Koster has affirmed that De Bruyne is set to remain in Manchester despite interest from elsewhere.

"He still has a three-year contract with a team that belongs at the top - in a club and a city where Kevin feels good and appreciated," De Koster told Sporza.

"Of course, there is always interest from other clubs but KDB is not thinking about a transfer right now.

"He has three years left on contract with a top club and feels very valued by the city and the club. 90% of all articles are bull****.

"There is always an informal interest for a good player in the football world, whether this is KDB or Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo or Antoine Griezmann."

De Bruyne has enjoyed a remarkable 2019-20 campaign with Pep Guardiola 's side, registering 13 goals and 21 assists across all competitions for the Citizens.

Barcelona 'give Antoine Griezmann assurances over future'

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Antoine Griezmann has reportedly been assured by Barcelona that he is still a key part of the club's long-term plans.

The France international has endured a tough first campaign at Camp Nou after joining from Atletico Madrid in a €120m (£107m) deal last summer.

Griezmann has struggled to break into the side of late, although he did score an impressive goal during a rare start against Villarreal on Sunday.

A number of teams have been tipped to move for the 29-year-old, including the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City, but L'Equipe reports that he will stay put in Catalonia.

Barca chiefs are said to have held a meeting with Griezmann on Tuesday and told the player that they are counting on him to step up next season, with an exit not a possibility.

Griezmann has scored 15 goals in 43 appearances for Barcelona in all competitions.

More stories from Manchester City over the previous day:

Arsenal considering Unai Nunez swoop?

Arsenal are reportedly one of a number of teams who are considering an approach for Athletic Bilbao defender Unai Nunez. Read more.

Pep Guardiola pours doubt on John Stones future at Manchester City

Pep Guardiola has always spoken highly of the England defender. Read more.

Manchester City, Juventus join Adama Traore race?

Manchester City and Juventus have reportedly join the race to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Adama Traore, who is said to be wanted by Liverpool and Man United. Read more.