Manchester City are in early contract talks with Raheem Sterling with both parties relaxed about the possibility of the forward signing a new deal, sources have told ESPN FC.
Sterling, ranked the No. 1 winger in ESPN FC 100, signed a three-year contract in 2018 that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2023, and City are under no pressure to further extend his stay.
He is only 11 behind his best tally of 25 for a single season set last term as City lifted an unprecedented domestic Treble of the Premier League title, FA Cup and League Cup.
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However, early discussions about the 24-year-old's future have taken place after a blistering start to the season that has seen the winger score 14 goals in 17 games in all competitions.
Sterling's form has attracted the attention of Real Madrid with speculation linking the Spanish giants with a move for the former Liverpool man.
The England international has become a key part of Pep Guardiola's team since his move from Anfield in 2015, and was named the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year last season.