Fernandinho is stalling on new contract talks at Manchester City.
The Sun says the Brazil midfielder, 34, has nine months left on his contract at the Etihad and the club like their stars' future sorted as early as possible.
But the three-time Premier League winner has such a strong relationship with City that there is no hurry.
Both parties are comfortable that the opportunity to talk will come about during the campaign as Pep Guardiola looks to mastermind a hat-trick of titles.
The City boss plans to use Fernandinho as a back-up centre-back as well as his usual position in defensive midfield.
