The transfer of Argentina defender Nicolás Otamendi to Manchester United has been rumoured for months but reports are now suggesting that rivals, Manchester City have moved into pole position. The £35 million release clause appears to have stalled United over the past few weeks of negotiations and with the fee supposedly not an issue for City, Manuel Pellegrini’s side might just strike a deal with Valencia.

According to Valencia-based newspaper Superdeporte both Manchester rivals met with Otamendi’s agent, Jorge Mendes over the weekend but the suggestion is that with Louis van Gaal’s side still unwilling to meet Valencia’s price, City have emerged as new favourites.

Valencia have always maintained that Otamendi would not be leaving for less than the £35 million that his contract demands and if the latest reports are to be believed that is not an issue for Manchester City.

The Citizens are desperate to claim back the Premier League title from Chelsea after a disappointing season last time out. Captain Vincent Kompany experienced a drop in form and so far the big money signing of Eliaquim Mangala has not proved fruitful meaning that central defence may well be an area that City look to improve.

If Otamendi really is Manchester United’s number one defensive target they might need to move fast to ensure that they do not lose the 27-year-old to a direct rival.