Michah Richards has turned down a new contract at Manchester
City.
The England star has been offered even better terms by owner
Thaksin Shinawatra and the latest deal is worth £50,000-a-week and
rising.
Shinawatra told Richards he rates him so highly that he is
personally behind the latest proposed increase in his salary - but
still it has not worked.
The astonishing package for the teenage international has risen
steadily in recent weeks, but some of his closest advisers think he
could yet pick up £75,000-a-week at City or elsewhere.
Richards had a poor game at Chelsea on Saturday and City are
becoming concerned the wrangling over his deal is affecting his
form.
The outstanding prospect is also coming to the end of his contract
with his agent and that is adding to the intrigue behind the
scenes.
