City are set to beat the duo to the signing of Benatia.
AS Roma defender Mehdi Benatia looks set for a Premier League transfer this summer as Manchester City lead the chase ahead of Chelsea and Manchester United, reports French daily L’Equipe.
Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also interested in the Morocco international, but it is City who are ready to land the centre-back as they try and improve their back four.
Captain Vincent Kompany is now considered among the best defensive players in world football, but question marks remain over the capabilities of Martin Demichelis and Joleon Lescott, whilst youngster Matija Nastastic continues to struggle with injuries.
Benatia would be a great addition having been one of the best players for Roma in a season where they appear to have returned to form.
The Italians have secured second place in Serie A and therefore a return to the Champions League, whilst they have also only conceded 24 goals in 37 matches.
Benatia has played a key part in that success after joining from Udinese in 2013 for an £11m fee and now Roma fear they could lose their star man.
United have also shown interest as they prepare for a summer of change and look to replace departing veterans Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic – although their lack of Champions League football could count against them.
Meanwhile the Blues are expected to sell David Luiz before the start of next term, with reports in the Daily Mail claiming both Barca and Bayern are also in the hunt for the Brazilian.
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