Manchester City are stepping up their bid for Athletic Bilbao midfielder Javi Martinez.

The 21-year-old Athletic Bilbao midfielder has enjoyed a fine season for his club, and was somewhat of a surprise call-up to the national team for South Africa, but made his debut in Spain's recent 3-2 win over Saudi Arabia.

However, Martinez's management agency claim to have sent the Sky Blues packing when they made their enquiry in March, as the player is under contract until 2014, and has a £25million buy-out clause.

The player himself has played down the immediate speculation, but did leave the door open for developments after his involvement at the World Cup.

"I've always said that I prefer not to talk about what comes out of the press, especially now I'm living the opportunity I've waited for," said Martinez.

"It's no the time to be thinking about that, but when the World Cup is finished there will be time to think about deals."