Phil Foden has made feelings clear on Real Madrid move amid shock Man City exit reports

Phil Foden has already made his feelings clear on leaving Manchester City amid links to Real Madrid.

Foden has stepped up in Kevin De Bruyne’s absence this term, having notched 18 goals and 10 assists in 40 appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side.

And according to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, such performances have attracted the attention of Real Madrid, who are said to be working hard on persuading Foden to join them in the summer.

The report added that Juni Calafat, Real Madrid's chief scout, has identified Foden as the next superstar they want to grace the Bernabeu pitch.

Foden won’t come cheap, however, with his contract at City running until the summer of 2027.

Moreover, it would likely take enormous convincing to prize Foden away from his boyhood club, with the midfielder having been at City since the age of four.

Speaking in December about his future, Foden admitted he could not see himself departing the Manchester club at any point in his career.

The 23-year-old told City's media team: “No, honestly, I just always see myself as a City player.

“I always just thought if I work hard enough and I know what my ability is about, I can push in the team and over time I started getting more minutes and now I’m probably getting the most minutes I’ve had this year.

Foden scored a brace in the Manchester derby against Manchester United (Getty)

“So yeah, I’ve worked really hard for it and it’s thanks to the manager also for trusting me, so I have him to thank for that and keeping me around.”

While Foden has made his mark at City, breaking into the Real first team could be an even more difficult task, with Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham already occupying the attacking positions.

Moreover, Brazilian youngster Endrick is prepared to join this summer, while it has been widely reported that Kylian Mbappe is finally set to complete his high-profile move to Los Blancos.