Manchester City are ready to challenge Manchester United for Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas. The Daily Express says City have been alerted to the availability of former Arsenal captain Fabregas, as Manchester United boss David Moyes made the Spaniard his top transfer target.

Premier League champions United are the frontrunners to bring Fabregas back to these shores, despite Arsenal holding first option on the 26-year-old as part of the £30 million deal that saw him sold to Barcelona two years ago.

Incoming Citizens manager Manuel Pellegrini revealed yesterday he has a 'verbal agreement' in place to take charge at the Etihad Stadium, and is also keen to sign the La Liga star.