Manuel Pellegrini has admitted that he wants James Milner to stay with Manchester City beyond the end of the current Premier League season.

The midfielder, who scored the second goal in the team's 4-2 win over Swansea City earlier, is out of contract this summer, and has been linked with Liverpool and Arsenal in recent weeks.

When asked if he wants Milner to sign a new contract during his post-match press conference, Pellegrini said: "Yes, of course. He's a very important player for us. It's a decision that James must take at the end of the season, what is better for his future?

"I always say he is an important player for our team because he plays in different positions and he is an intelligent player. He always gives 100%. Milner can play in 10 different positions and always do it well."

Milner has won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and a League Cup title since moving to the Etihad Stadium in 2010.