Manchester City to rival Manchester United for Dutch star

Manchester City are interested in signing Ajax and Holland youngster Frenkie de Jong, according to the Daily Mirror.

Pep Guardiola wants to sign a defensive midfielder in January, and has shortlisted the Dutchman for a potential transfer move.

It is understood that the Premier League champions had a £50m bid for the midfielder rejected during the last summer transfer window, but are set to make another move.

The Dutch side have ruled out selling the player in January, but he may be sold next summer.

Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona have all been linked with a move for the Holland international, but the player is said to prefer a move to the Nou Camp.

Barcelona are expected to return with an offer for De Jong next summer when it is likely the player will leave.

With the number of clubs going after De Jong increasing, his value will also increase, and it is likely he will only be available for at least £50m.