The defender is strongly linked with a Premier League deal
Manchester City look set to beat their fierce local rivals Manchester United to the signing of Valencia’s Nicolas Otamendi.
The centre-back has been involved in a summer long saga that has seen United become the favourites to sign him in this transfer window.
However, Valencia were holding out for his £35 million release clause to be met by the Red Devils’ boss Louis van Gaal, but rumours that Otamendi has refused to train with his teammates in Spain could see him leave for a significantly lower price.
Reports suggest that the Argentina international was in Manchester over the weekend to complete a move, with City manager Manuel Pellegrini apparently having a £28.4 million bid accepted by the La Liga side.
Added competition for City’s backline
Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has been partnered by Eliaquim Mangala in the opening two games of the season.
The two have looked very strong and comfortable together, as last years runners-up have kept clean sheets in their comprehensive 3-0 victories away at West Bromwich Albion and at home to Chelsea.
Only Martin Demichelis is providing any threat to Kompany and Mangala’s starting places, but Pellegrini will be hoping Otamendi can upgrade the competition further at the Etihad Stadium.
Otamendi and Mangala have previously played together at FC Porto.
