Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hinted that a future move for Jack Wilshere could be on the cards after waxing lyrical about the Arsenal midfielder, reports The Telegraph.

What's the word?

There are no concrete claims that the two-time Premier League champions are actually interested in making a move for Wilshere, but Guardiola's public admiration could be a cause for concern for the Gunners.

Ahead of this evening's league clash against Bournemouth, where Wilshere is on loan for the season, City's Spanish coach talked up the 25-year-old's qualities.

Guardiola admitted that he was very impressed by Wilshere's performance against the manager's former club Barcelona during a Champions League last-16 tie six years ago.

The Telegraph quotes Guardiola as saying:

“He left a massive impression when he came. A high, high level. I know the problem with Jack Wilshere was just the injuries. He’s lucky to play regularly for one season and he is going to be back to being one of the best midfield players in England by far. He’s quality, he’s smart and has the quality on the ball.

“He has a special quality with the ball, dribbling as a holding midfielder to attack central defenders - it’s not easy to do that. He’s a little bit like Dembele at Tottenham. They have quality to pass, pass, pass and then immediately destroy the defensive structures. I’m so happy he’s back and he’s playing regularly."

Wilshere has been plagued by injuries over the last few years, but down on the South Coast he has so far kept away from the treatment table and is a regular in Eddie Howe's team.

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The England international has made 19 appearances in the Premier League this season, 17 of which have been starts.

Could Wilshere to City actually happen?

As mentioned, there are no indications that the North-West outfit are seriously considering a move, but given the financial clout behind them, the owners would likely back Guardiola if the Spaniard placed Wilshere on his wishlist.

From the player's point of view, having an opportunity to play under the successful coach would arguably be hugely tempting.

Wilshere does have loyalty to Arsenal, though, considering that he came through the youth ranks in 2008.

If manager Arsene Wenger promised the midfielder that he would be a regular part of the first team next season, Wilshere would probably opt to stay put and perhaps sign a new contract.

Now that he has been handed consistent game time at Bournemouth, he will not want to give that up, and that could be the main factor in deciding where he ends up.

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