Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has spoken of his pride at Raheem Sterling’s progress both on and off the pitch.

The 24-year-old England international is reportedly in talks over a new deal with the reigning Premier League champions, despite signing a five-year contract in November 2018.

Sterling won the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award last season and has been praised for his stance on racism.

Al Mubarak has enjoyed seeing Sterling ‘grow’ at City, and told Sky Sports: ‘I’m very proud of what Raheem has done over the last couple of years.

‘His evolution as a player, but more importantly as a person, I think has been exceptional.

‘He has become a leader, both on and off the pitch, he’s become a leader in this squad at Manchester City, he’s becoming a leader at England serving his country, and a leader in the community.

‘I’m so happy for him, I think he’s a wonderful young man and … one thing I’m sure of, Raheem is only going to improve and only going to grow as both a player and a leader, so the future is very bright for Raheem and it’s a pleasure to have him as part of the team.’