Manchester United and Manchester City are preparing to do battle for the signature of Real Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez as they look to strengthen their respective defences in the summer.
According to reports in the UK press, the 24-year-old is considering a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu in search of regular first team football, and would consider a move to the north west of England.
United manager David Moyes faces a major overhaul of his squad this summer, with a particular focus on the defence. Club captain Nemanja Vidic will leave the club at the end of the season and sign for Inter Milan on a free transfer. Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra may also be moved on from Old Trafford.
At cross city rivals, Manuel Pellegrini will be looking to bolster his back line after some uncertain performances this season from Martin Demichelis in particular.
Fernandez has spent 10 years with Los Blancos having worked his way up through the youth teams. He made his first team debut in 2011, and has represented Spain at international level. But he has found opportunities at the club hard to come by, making just seven appearances for the side under Carlo Ancelotti this season.
