Guillem Balague joined BBC's Football Daily podcast and talked about Raheem Sterling's reported admiration of Real Madrid and the possibility of a transfer happening at one point in the future.

Even though he started the game on the bench, Sterling still made an appearance in the second half, immediately putting Los Blancos to the knife as he won that penalty which ultimately gave them the win.

And Balague revealed that Sterling and Real Madrid have flirted in the past, hinting at the player's interest in playing for the Spanish giants. But, if he is to be believed, they simply won't be able to snatch him away from City.

Here's what he said for BBC's Football Daily podcast (26/2/2020): "But I knew at the time already that there were moves from Sterling's side to attract Real Madrid so the conversation has been going on. At some point you have to do the interview, which he did. And then you know, fingers crossed that they eventually come for you but I do think that they won't be able to prise him away from City."

Of course, Balague is referencing Sterling's interview with AS since the young forward spoke highly of Real Madrid back then when talking to the Spanish publication.

This was huge proof of his admiration for Los Blancos but the journalist still believes there's no way they can actually afford to snatch him away from Man City.

Still, the player's affection seems to be obvious and it remains to be seen how this story ends.

Man City fans, do you fear that you might lose Sterling to Real Madrid? Do you think there's truth to Balague's words? Let us know in the comments below!