Man City take on Barcelona in transfer race for David Alaba with Bayern Munich star ‘looking for new challenge’

MANCHESTER CITY are in a battle with Barcelona to land Bayern Munich star David Alaba, according to reports.

The reigning Premier League champions are in need of some defensive reinforcements when the transfer window reopens.

Failing to replace Vincent Kompany, poor form and some key, long-term injuries have all contributed to a disastrous title defence this term.

But according to Sport, City are keen to make a move for the Austrian.

Still only 27, Alaba is comfortable at left-back, centre-back and also in midfield and his quality and experience could prove critical in a team struggling defensively.

He proved that versatility during his time working under now-City boss Pep Guardiola at Bayern.

With Benjamin Mendy and Ayermic Laporte injury prone and John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi still not at the highest level, Guardiola could be tempted to go in for a reunion with Alaba.

Reports last week stated that the defender is “not convinced” he wants to stay with the Bundesliga giants but is instead ready for a new challenge.

He has one year left to run on his current deal and is expected to be valued at around £60million.

It is understood he has also appointed Pini Zahavi as his new agent – the Israeli middle-man who also has Robert Lewandowski and Alex Telles among his clientele.

However, Real Madrid and particularly Barcelona are also keen on Alaba.

But the report adds that Manchester City are more likely to be able to afford the Austrian’s wages ahead of Barcelona.

One major stumbling block for the Etihad club could be trying to do business with Bayern Munich, though.

The Germans are desperate to try and sign Leroy Sane this summer with a fee of around £90m expected to be enough.

But if City refuse to sell Sane, the Bavarians could play hard ball and not allow Alaba to head in the other direction.