Manchester City have reportedly decided against a loan move for Julian Alvarez for the 2022-23 campaign, as they see the striker as part of their plans for the new season.

The 22-year-old was signed from River Plate for around £14m back in January, before City sent him back on loan to his former club for the remainder of the 2021-22 Premier League season.

Alvarez is due to join up with Pep Guardiola's side for pre-season in early July following the end of his loan spell in Argentina, and there has been talk of how much game time the youngster would get at the Etihad Stadium next season due to the arrival of Erling Braut Haaland.

It was reported recently that Ligue 1 runners-up Marseille were interested in taking Alvarez on loan next season should City sanction a deal, but Manchester Evening News are reporting that Guardiola wishes to retain the services of his new forward.

The report outlines how the initial plan was to take a close look at Alvarez during pre-season training before making a decision on his future for the next 12 months, but that City have already decided to keep him as part of their squad for the 2022-23 season.

The Argentina international has enjoyed an impressive spell with River Plate in Argentina, netting 18 goals and registering six assists in just 21 league appearances during the 2021 season, and recently scored six goals during his side's 8-0 win against Alianza Lima in the Copa Libertadores.