Foe, who celebrated his 28th birthday last month, was due to decide whether to join City on a full-time basis next week after enjoying a successful season-long loan spell when he scored nine goals in 35 Premiership appearances.

After a slow start, he eventually became of one the major influences in the side, bagging his first goal for the club against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light and netting twice against the same opposition in April to wrap-up his scoring spree.

City fanzine editor Dave Wallace declared: “We are all absolutely shocked.

“There will be a lot of tributes from City fans. A lot of the crowd were dubious about him at first – but then he starting belting goals in from all over the place.

“His pace was deceptive – and I'd have been delighted if we had signed him for a couple of million.”

City chairman John Wardle has also revealed the club’s devastation at the death of Foe.

“Manchester City Football Club are devastated to hear the tragic news of Marc Vivien Foe’s death,” said Wardle.

“Whilst at City, Marc made an excellent contribution to our successful return to the Premiership and was very highly regarded by his fellow players.

“He will be sadly missed by his team-mates, not just as a player but also as a friend. All of our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

Former City favourite Peter Barnes was stunned by the news, adding: “I can’t believe it.

“For anyone to pass away is very, very sad. But when someone is only 28 - well, I don’t know what to say.

“I’m sure the fans will see it as a very sad loss.”