Frank Lampard could extend his stay at Manchester City until the end of February with New York City FC exploring the possibility of undergoing pre-season training in Manchester in January.

Former Chelsea midfielder Lampard is contracted to start work for New York City on Jan 1 after signing for the newly-formed MLS franchise on a free transfer during the summer.

But with New York not due to kick-off their debut campaign in the MLS until mid-March, Lampard agreed a six-month loan at City - who have the same Abu Dhabi owners as New York - in order to retain his fitness and also boost Manuel Pellegrini's squad options at the Etihad Stadium.

Lampard's impressive start to his loan at City has led to the prospect of Pellegrini seeking to prolong his loan agreement.

But the issue over Lampard, currently sidelined with a thigh injury, could be resolved if New York undertake some of their pre-season preparations at City's new £200m training ground.

Efforts are also being made to assess the possibility of New York playing friendly games against lower league opposition in the north-west should the fixture calendar allow it.

If that becomes a reality, Lampard could make his New York debut against the likes of Rochdale or Bury before flying out to the States for the start of the MLS season.