City in fresh Johnson talks

Hughes hopes to tie down talented midfielder

Last updated: 21st August 2008

michael johnson man city

Johnson: New talks

Michael Johnson has re-opened talks with Manchester City over a new contract, skysports.com understands.

The England Under-21 international rejected a new contract offer earlier this month, and talks between his representatives and the club reached stalemate.

Talks, though, have now started again and City boss Mark Hughes is hopeful that they can tie Johnson down to a new lucrative long-term contract.

Arsenal, Liverpool Aston Villa and Everton have all been tracking the 20-year-old this summer and news of the failed talks had put them on alert.

But now City hope to persuade the midfielder to sign and put an end to any speculation surrounding his long-term future.