City say no to Tevez sale in January

Manchester City will not sell unsettled Carlos Tevez in the January transfer window according to BBC Sport, despite the striker putting in a transfer request.

The 26-year old Argentinian stunned the club this weekend after requesting to leave. He reportedly said in a written transfer request that relations with 'certain executives' at Eastlands had 'broken down beyond repair'.

This was quickly rebuffed by officials saying it was 'ludicrous and nonsensical'. City have apparently blamed Tevez's agent Kia Joorabchian for attempting to re-negotiate in the middle of a season.

Tevez, currently with 3 and 1/2 years left on his 5 year contract, has in recent weeks shown his frustration on the pitch towards City manager Roberto Mancini, notably after being substituted against Bolton.

The Argentine international has become one of Manchester City's most important players since his controversial move across Manchester in 2009. Tevez has scored 33 times in 50 appearances making him an instant hero with the crowd at Eastlands and was even made captain by Mancini at the beginning of the campaign.

Tevez spent the weekend in Tenerife according to Sky Sports, after serving his suspension for the 3-1 win away at West Ham United.

Tevez claimed in his written transfer request that this wasn't the first time he wanted awat from Eastlands. He said: "I hugely resent suggestions that I have been unduly influenced by others. I wanted to leave in the summer, but was convinced to return. Sadly, my feelings have not changed."

It is thought that Tevez would favour a move to Argentina, where his two young daughters live. The youngest, Katia was born this year prematurely and spent time in intensive care. City say they tried their upmost to help Tevez through these personal issues.

Manchester City released a statement on Sunday morning saying: "This is both an unfortunate and unwelcome distraction, and the club will remain focused on the games ahead in what is turning out to be a very promising season."

City will want a quick resolution to the situation before any further damage is done, or their title bid is derailed.

Female First - Chris Mayer