Manchester City are set to go head to head for the signature of experienced Brazilian centre-back Thiago Silva.
The AC Milan defender has been an integral part of their defence since arriving at the San Siro in 2009 picking up over 75 league appearances in that time. The 27 year old has not been that fortunate for his country having only picked up only a further 18 international caps since his first in 2008.
The Spanish giants were keen on Silva over the summer but were however knocked back by the Serie A side who consider the centre-back to be pivotal to the future of the club. Barcelona though will look to sign the player once again with a new offer during the summer as they continue to look for a successor to the aging Carlos Puyols.
Manchester City do appear to be looking for back up in that central defence area and although there had been rumours that Mancini was looking to move right-back Micah Richards inside on a long term basis, it is now believed that the Italian tactician is looking for a seasoned professional in that area.
Should AC Milan decide to sell Thiago Silva to Manchester City he will have to fight for his place in a team that already boasts the likes of Vincent Company and Joleon Lescott in those central positions.