Manchester City have emerged as the favourites to land Valencia centre-back Nicolas Otamendi, according to reports.
Reports on Tuesday suggested Manchester United were just “hours away” from signing the Argentine international, however, it now appears United’s noisy neighbours will attempt to swoop on the Red Devils’ long-term transfer target.
According to Superdeporte, Otamendi’s agent Sergio Mendes is keen for the 27-year-old to join City after having received an improved contract offer from the cashed-up Premier League giants.
It is understood Valencia are holding firm on Otamendi’s £35m release clause, however, neither Manchester club is yet to be willing to match the fee.
The defender has made it clear he is keen for a move away from the Mestalla this summer, but it seems he will need Valencia to cave in and drop its asking price for the former FC Porto man.
Otamendi has made 35 La Liga appearances for Valencia since making the move to the Spanish club in 2014.
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