Pep Guardiola has already explained the reason behind Man City transfer exodus

Every transfer window Manchester City players are linked with moves away from the Etihad Stadium and this summer is no different. That's just the reality of having a squad packed with extremely talented players.

What is a bit unusual this year, though, is that after another successful season in which the Blues won a fourth Premier League title in five years, there is a very real possibility that a host of stars could leave the club.

Following on from the end-of-contract departure of Fernandinho, official confirmation of Gabriel Jesus' transfer to Arsenal is imminent. Raheem Sterling looks increasingly likely to complete a move to Chelsea, while City's title rivals are also keen to sign Nathan Ake — although MEN Sport understands that such a deal would not be sanctioned unless City receive at least £50m and can find a replacement.

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Add to that the reports that a number of clubs are monitoring Oleksandr Zinchenko — who is open to a move — and City could start the new season minus five senior outfield members of their title-winning squad.

The main response to this from many pundits and some City fans is: why? Why are City happy to sell Jesus (one of their most versatile and energetic attackers) and strengthen a direct title rival by selling Sterling to Chelsea?

In those two cases the obvious answer is contracts; both could have walked away for nothing in June 2023, so if they don't want to sign new deals then selling now is the obvious option. Few clubs, aside from Premier League giants, can afford to stump up the cash both players' talents demand.

But there is another reason, a more human explanation removed from transfer fees and wages, contract renewals