Already surrounded by uncertainty over manager Sven-Goran Eriksson’s future, Manchester City’s problems could be compounded as a player exodus could be sparked off by the possible move of skipper Richard Dunne as BBC Sport report that the dependable defender has turned down a new contract, with Tottenham, Portsmouth, Newcastle and West Ham said to be interested.

Along with the Republic of Ireland star, futures of England defender Micah Richards and midfielder Michael Johnson are under speculation with the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool linked.

It is reported that Spurs are in the forefront and closing in on a £5m deal for the 28-year-old Dunne, who will be a free agent at the end of the next season.