Transfer Talk: City set to fight United for Barca star De Jong

Manchester City are ready to join the race for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

And that could start a bidding war between City and neighbours Manchester United this summer.

Pep Guardiola was keen for De Jong to move to the Etihad when it became clear he would leave Ajax in 2019.

The then 22-year-old opted for Barca but he could be set to depart the Camp Nou as the Catalan giants look to sort their financial issues.

Earlier this week, new United boss Erik ten Hag was tipped with an interest in bringing his former charge to Old Trafford.

Now the Red Devils may have to convince the 24-year-old that the red side of Manchester is a better fit than joining the defending Premier League champions.

With City skipper Fernandinho set to leave at the end of his contract this summer, Guardiola is keen to bring in more quality to his midfield.

The Mail say that the Citizens boss wants a player comfortable sitting in front of the back four, but who can also play in more advanced roles.

The table toppers have been linked with Declan Rice previously, as have United, however he is unlikely to be available for anything less than £150million.

De Jong cost Barcelona £65m three years ago, yet could be available for less than that now.

In other news

Everton may offload Jordan Pickford, 28, this summer with talkSPORT reporting both Newcastle and Tottenham are interested.

Spurs are also keeping a close eye on Villarreal duo Pau Torres and Arnaut Danjuma, according to 90min.

Reports in Italy suggest that Borussia Dortmund have offered a deal to out-of-contract Juventus star Paulo Dybala, who has been linked with a whole host of Premier League clubs.