The China international's contract runs out at the end of this month and he is unlikely to be offered another one, claims the Manchester Evening News.

Early interest from Burnley now seems to have waned but it appears the 30-year-old utility man will still have a choice of clubs close to his Manchester home should he choose to stay in this country.

Blackburn and Preston could also still offer a fresh start for a player who clocked up nine league and cup starts last season but managed an impressive 130 in his five-year stay with City.

He has 66 caps for his country and is one of the most popular sportsmen in China.