Manchester City have opted to shelve contract talks with a trio of experienced defenders.

The Sun is reporting that Gael Clichy, Bacary Sagna and Pablo Zabaleta have been told by Pep Guardiola that they must prove themselves n order for negotiations to recommence.

All three players, who are over the age of 30, are in the final year of their deals with City and could be on the way out if they do not show Guardiola they are required players for next season.

A City source told The Sun: "There are no talks in pipeline to discuss possible contract extensions for Pablo Zabaleta, Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy.

"All three are out of contract next summer but all given a reprieve by Pep Guardiola to prove themselves this season.

"They are all over the age of 30 and with youngsters Pablo Maffeo and Angelino also knocking on the first-team door, City are biding their time."