Man City star De Bruyne takes ball to the face in hilarious clip
Manchester City finally look like challenging for the Premier League title under Guardiola after a breathtaking start to the new Premier League season.
City currently sit top of the table having won seven of their first eight games.
De Bruyne has been central to their rise, scoring a stunner against Chelsea and registering five assists already this campaign.
But Spanish website Don Balon claims Guardiola is fearful that the Belgium international could be tempted by a move to Barcelona.
It is said Ernesto Valverde’s side have been monitoring the playmaker this season.
Over the summer, Barcelona repeatedly tried to lure Philippe Coutinho away from Liverpool.
Reports even claim the Catalan giants could be about to renew their interest in the Brazilian when the transfer window reopens in January.
But Guardiola is concerned City could lose their midfield lynchpin if Barcelona come calling.
Valverde’s side also need a long-term replacement for club captain Andres Iniesta.
GETTY
Barcelona News: Pep Guardiola is scared Kevin De Bruyne could leave
GETTY
Barcelona News: Barca could replace Andres Iniesta with Kevin De Bruyne
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The 33-year-old signed a lifetime contract earlier in October after months of uncertainty over his future.
But the fact remains that Barcelona will need to sign a replacement sooner rather than later.
Don Balon add Real Madrid also have an interest in De Bruyne.
Yet Guardiola wants to offer the 26-year-old a new deal in order to prevent him leaving the Etihad Stadium.