McCarthy has been continually linked with a move to England

Celta Vigo insist striker Benni McCarthy will not be moving to Manchester City on loan unless the English club can guarantee to complete a permanent transfer in the summer.

The South Africa international has been linked with several English sides during the transfer window, but City have emerged as the most likely destination for the 25-year-old.

"It is unlikely that we would loan Benni out without a guaranteed sale at the end of it," said Celta sporting director Felix Carnero.

"The player's agent (Rob Moore) and an English agent are in talks with us, but we are not negotiating directly with Manchester City."

Celta loaned Uruguayan forward Ivan Kaviedes to Mexican club Puebla de Mexico on Thursday, further reducing the chance of McCarthy leaving the Balaidos.

"We have placed on loan one of our strikers, so if Benni left we would have to find a player to replace him," added Carnero.

"Benni is a great player, but if we cannot justify a sale then it is very difficult for us to let him leave."

Former Ajax star McCarthy has made seven appearances for Celta this season, starting only twice, and has scored one goal.