Pep Guardiola is open to extending his stay at Manchester City beyond 2019.

The Catalan's contract runs until the end of next season, with talks over fresh terms not expected before the end of this campaign.

Guardiola's focus remains on winning his first piece of silverware in England and Sportsmail understands any negotiations would be smooth given his strong relationships with members of the City board.

Manager Pep Guardiola is open to extending his stay at Manchester City beyond 2019

Details of an extension have not yet been discussed but sources suggested Guardiola is willing to talk in the summer.

It raises the possibility of his time at the Etihad Stadium eclipsing the four years spent in charge of Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich.

City are eight points clear of rivals Manchester United at the Premier League's summit and have already qualified for the Champions League last 16.

Guardiola, who earns in the region of £15million a year, is believed to be enjoying life in the North West, comfortable in the city centre apartment with his family.

Guardiola is hoping to win his first silverware this season, and is believed to be happy to stay

The 46-year-old has been encouraged by the way in which City's squad have responded to his methods this season after being afforded significant finance to correct problem areas.

He has also privately pointed towards the likes of the club's England Under 17s sensation Phil Foden as providing him further enthusiasm as boss.

Guardiola, who regularly watched the Under 18s train last season, quickly spotted the midfielder's potential and hopes to be in a position to mould Foden into a first-team regular.