Manchester City fans in the Transfer Tavern could soon be receiving an early Christmas present after reports by the Daily Mail suggest that Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola has decided that his next managerial position will be at the Etihad Stadium.

Pints were spilt in celebration when fans heard that the former Barcelona boss is understood to have rejected a £280,000-a-week contract to stay in Munich in favour of a move to City, who are expected to top Bayern’s offer and make him the highest paid manager in the world with a £15 million-a-year contract.

The reports come after Guardiola, who is often cited to be the best manager in world football, stated that he will provide ‘clarity’ on his future next week.

Goal.com claim that the 44-year old has now decided to leave Bayern and is due to make an announcement early next week, whilst the announcement could be brought forward as speculation continues to intensify.

It is rumoured that Guardiola feels the time is right for a new challenge in another country after three seasons at the Allianz Arena, where he has won back-to-back Bundesliga titles.

Guardiola intends to manage in the Premier League next season, although he is highly unlikely to announce his new club, particularly with managers currently in place at his potential destinations in England, including Manuel Pellegrini at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City believe the 44-year old coach can lead them to the top of European football, while he also has a very close relationship with City Director of Football Txiki Begiristain and CEO Ferran Soriano from their time together at the Camp Nou.

Under the guidance of both ex-Barcelona officials, City have become a huge brand in world football, with such developments as the new £200 million academy facilities and the recent expansion of the Etihad’s capacity, and many believe that the role at the helm has been designed for Guardiola to walk into.

However, Bayern Munich’s sporting director, Matthias Sammer, claimed that he does not know what Guardiola’s current intentions are, telling Goal.com:

"I don't know what Pep will decide. I can't say."

Meanwhile, Guardiola is known to admire rivals Manchester United having been approached by Sir Alex Ferguson before his retirement and the Reds may become an option should Louis van Gaal continue to struggle at Old Trafford.

Similarly Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is a long-term admirer of Guardiola, particularly due to his reputation for attractive football. With Jose Mourinho under enormous pressure and Chelsea languishing just one point above the relegation zone in 16th place, the Portuguese boss could be replaced by the Catalan.

Where will Guardiola end up? Let us know in the comments below!