Manchester City are interested in Sevilla defender Jules Kounde.

City are eyeing Kounde as an alternative to Kalidou Koulibaly.

The Napoli centre-back has proved difficult to lure away and now Etihad chiefs have turned their attention to Spain.

The Telegraph reports that Kounde, 21, has been earmarked by Real Madrid and Barcelona as a future transfer but Pep Guardiola may swoop this window to help reinforce City's defence.

The France Under-21 international was a major part of Sevilla's Europa League win over Inter last month and his reputation continues to rise.

But his €68m release clause may prove a potential sticking point.

Otamendi, who has spent over five years at the club, is reportedly being considered as a makeweight to help secure any potential deal.