Danny Sturridge is still to sign a new contract with Manchester City.

The Mirror says the 19-year-old's deal expires in the summer, when he could leave as a free agent. And the City whizz-kid is growing increasingly frustrated at the club's inability to produce a contract that reflects his status as one of the country's best young strikers.

Blackburn are said to want him as a makeweight in any deal for Roque Santa Cruz, but Sturridge is keen to remain at Eastlands. However, he will be forced to consider his options if the impasse continues, with Chelsea, Aston Villa and Everton all watching developments.