Get Pep! Man City target Guardiola to replace Manuel Pellegrini despite Man Utd admission

WANTED MAN: Pep Guardiola is unlikely to stay at Bayern Munich beyond his current deal

Pep Guardiola is still wanted by Man City – despite admitting he has eyes for bitter rivals United.

The Bayern Munich coach, 48, revealed last week that he would love to become Old Trafford boss when he quits the Bundesliga.

But Guardiola occupying the United hotseat won't happen – if City get their way and lure him to The Etihad first.

Although the Spaniard snubbed City's offer – and one from Chelsea – to come to England 18 months ago, he has remained top of the Premier League champs' future wish list.

And they are not concerned by recent reports claiming the ex-Barcelona coach fancies a job with the neighbours more than with them.

For starters, there is no guarantee the United post will be available at the right time for Guardiola.

Much depends on how Louis van Gaal's Red Devils reign unravels.

Should the Dutchman revive the glory days, he will not be going anywhere until the end of 2016-17 – at the earliest.

That would give City a window of opportunity to strike for Guardiola once he is back on the managerial market.

Few expect him to stay in Munich beyond May 2016 when his current deal ends.

Indeed, some reckon that exit may come sooner if an uneasy relationship with the Bayern board fails to improve.

Meanwhile, City boss Manuel Pellegrini is under growing pressure with his club's Champions League challenge once again in danger of early collapse.

A poor result at CSKA Moscow this week would all but kill off their dreams of reaching the knockout stage.

And if that happens Pellegrini, 61, who has less than two years left on his deal, is likely to get the boot next May as City chiefs start the search for his successor.