Manchester City are moving to beat Manchester United to the signing of Monaco fullback Benjamin Mendy.

The Daily Star says United fear they will lose out to neighbours City in the battle for Mendy – unless they qualify for the Champions League.

The French club's highly rated defender is only expected to be tempted away from Monaco if it's to a club who can give him continued Champions League action.

And at the moment, City are in a stronger position to do that.

Mendy, 22, is valued at £30million, although Monaco could demand double that fee.