Manchester City are lining up a January move for River Plate midfielder Nicolas de la Cruz.

The Uruguayan youngster helped Marcelo Gallardo's River Plate reach this year's Copa Libertadores final, which was won by Flamengo last week.

Marca says City chiefs are so impressed they're willing to pay MORE than the buyout clause inside De la Cruz's deal.

The midfielder can leave River for €22m, however City are preparing a €25m offer ahead of the January market.

City want to make sure they win the battle for the 22-year-old. His contract expires in the summer of 2021.