Pep Guardiola has not ruled out a potential summer transfer for Douglas Luiz.
The Brazilian has enjoyed an excellent two seasons at Aston Villa after moving there from Manchester City for £15m in 2019.
City had a buy-back clause inserted into the deal, meaning they can re-sign Douglas for £27.5m, although this expires in June.
It means the clock is ticking on any potential deal for Douglas, who was unable to make an appearance during his two years at City due to being denied a work permit, instead spending the time on loan at Girona.
Guardiola said he is delighted to see the 22-year-old developing well at Aston Villa, having featured in Wednesday's game between the two sides.
He said: "He's a guy who's played a lot of minutes, he's an important player for Aston Villa.
"A guy who's clever with the ball, he's so physical and strong.
"He's a lovely guy, unfortunately when he came, due to the work permit, he could not play.
"I'm happy he's developing really, really well.
"Today, when he was involved in the game defensively, he was good."
When asked if City would be exercising their buy-back clause, Guardiola was coy but did not specifically rule it out.
He said: "I have many things in my head ahead of the next five or six weeks.
"We've fought a lot to be here, we have the final, we have the Premier League and we have the Champions League for the second time in our lives at this club.
"I don't want to be distracted. There are a lot of people at the club working about these types of players and then, at the end of the season, we will make a decision."
