Manchester City are ready to pounce for Napoli star Ezequiel Lavezzi. The Argentina international is viewed at City as a direct replacement for rebel striker Carlos Tevez and manager Roberto Mancini has already admitted his admiration this season.

Napoli's swoop for Universidad de Chile star Eduardo Vargas is seen as a direct replacement for Lavezzi, whose girlfriend is also pushing for them to leave Naples after she was mugged at gunpoint last month.

Should the Azzurri choose to sell, City are favourites for Lavezzi, though will face competition from Real Madrid and PSG.