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Manuel Pellegrini reveals that he would like to keep Frank Lampard at Manchester City longer than his current loan deal runs.
The 36-year-old is on loan from the Citzens’ sister-club New York City for the rest of the calendar year.
But City wish to keep the former Chelsea midfielder for longer and are hopeful of negotiating a deal to last until the end of the campaign.
“Frank is very important for our team”
"I repeat, Frank is very important for our team so I hope he will stay here," said Pellegrini.
Asked if he risked upsetting the Americans, Pellegrini said: "I don't think so. That is why we have long conversations with all of them.
"That is just one club so I think that what is better for the club is better for all the clubs.
"I hope Frank's situation will be resolved in the next days. I said in the beginning it will be during December we are going to have the last decision."
Lampard has been a key member of City's squad this season having scored six goals in 15 appearances.
With the imminent departure of Yaya Toure for the Africa Cup of Nations in January, the champions could be left short in the midfield positions if Lampard leaves for America.
New York City begin their pre-season training in January ahead of the new Major League Soccer season which starts in March.
