Jamie Redknapp has urged Raheem Sterling to choose staying at Manchester City over moving to Real Madrid or Barcelona.
The England international was in sparkling form as City took another big step towards defending their Premier League title with a 4-0 win over Norwich.
Sterling struck a perfect hat-trick as the Blues eased to victory, and underlined his importance to Pep Guardiola as speculation continues over his future.
The 27-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Etihad, having suggested earlier in the season he could leave City in order to secure regular playing time.
Sterling has since managed to reclaim his place in the side, although there are still questions over his future at the club amid links to the likes of Madrid and Barcelona.
The former Liverpool forward’s contract at the Etihad expires next year, although City appear increasingly confident they can tie him down to a longer deal.
And Sky Sports pundit Redknapp believes Sterling’s best fit still lies at City with Guardiola, having cast doubt over a potential move to Spain.
“He’s fundamental,” Redknapp said.
“You look at where he could perhaps go, and he’ll have options to go anywhere, but the lure of say Real Madrid and Barcelona aren’t quite what they were a few years ago, if they can afford him.
“For him to be there, it just feels like the right fit. I think only Messi and Aguero have scored more goals under Guardiola as a manager, and it shows you the importance.
“They work together, it feels right with him there. He scores so many goals, his movement, desire, getting into those areas just to get those tap-ins he does.
“He doesn’t score many goals that get you up off your seat, but he knows where the goal is.
“Important moments in games, he just gets in the right areas. He’s so difficult to defend against.”
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