Pep Guardiola today said he would sign a new left-sided defender “if it’s possible”.

But he sidestepped a question about Marc Cucurella.

City have seen a £30 million bid rejected as they pursue the Albion star.

Cucurella was today understood to have submitted a transfer request.

At his press conference ahead of the Community Shield, Guardiola said this afternoon: “He's a Brighton player, I cannot say anything else.”

Asked if he needed a left-back, Guadiola played down any pressing requirement to add to the squad.

He said: “If it's possible, yes, if it's not we stay.

“Joao (Cancelo) can play there, Josh (Wilson-Esbrand), Nathan (Ake).

“I never complain about the squad I have since the first season.

“What the club can do is the benefit for the club, not me. I support the club.”