Joleon Lescott has plans to leave Manchester City in January.
The Daily Mail says it remains almost certain that he will not sign a new contract at the Etihad Stadium.
The former Everton star was also told that he will not be first choice when everybody is fit and is therefore happy to explore his options when the transfer window opens in January.
Lescott, who continues to interest Everton and Aston Villa, is expected to continue in central defence at Stoke City.
