Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola would not be drawn on reports that centre-back John Stones is a target for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

The Gunners boss said there was “no truth” to claims that he is looking to sign the England international, but when asked to comment on the speculation himself, Guardiola refused, stating he is tired about talking about transfer rumours:

“I am not going to talk about rumours about our players or other players. We are going to buy 500 million players? I’m not going to answer about that.”

It is fair to say that Stones has not always been in favour under Guardiola, but with just two fit centre-backs in the squad, it was always highly unlikely that the 25-year-old would be allowed to leave during the current transfer window.

The centre-half returned from injury to start the 4-1 win over Port Vale in the FA Cup at the beginning of the month, and he kept his place for the 6-1 victory against Aston Villa last weekend. Whether he’ll retain his spot for the game against Crystal Palace tomorrow, it remains to be seen.