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Southampton are playing hardball on Ryan Bertrand - and are determined to block him leaving this summer.

Manchester City are keen on the England left back as Pep Guardiola looks to strengthen his squad and they believe Bertrand is ready to quit.

But Southampton have told Bertrand they are not ready to let him go this summer despite strong interest from City and Liverpool.

City want two quality full backs on either flank and have been looking at Bertrand despite long standing interest in Monaco’s Benjamin Mendy.

Former Chelsea left back Bertrand is trying hard to nail down his place as England’s first choice in World Cup year and a move to a Champions League club could appeal.

(Image: Bryn Lennon)

But Southampton are determined to keep their biggest players, having already played tough over Virgil van Dijk who is a £60m target for Liverpool, City and Chelsea.

Down the years, Southampton have gained a reputation for selling their big names and yet will be determined not to lose Bertrand and van Dijk.

Clubs have not given up on van Dijk and it still seems possible Liverpool could get him despite apologising after being caught up in a “tapping up” row.

But Southampton are determined not to end up in another fire sale this summer.