Man Utd Transfer News: United Linked With Spanish Ace

Manchester United and Manchester City look set to go head-to-head for Valencia left back Jordi Alba, according to reports.

The 22-year-old defender has established himself at the Mestalla this season and has recently broken in to the Spanish national team set up, making his debut in a 3-1 win over Scotland last month. Reports today have suggested that the former Barcelona youngster’s form has alerted both Roberto Mancini and Sir Alex Ferguson, who are both on the look out for a new left back.

City splashed out £7m on Gael Clichy in the summer and the former Arsenal man has settled well, but Mancini feels he needs more competition for that spot with Aleksandar Kolarov failing to impress so far in his City career. Many feel the Serbian has struggled with the pace of the Premier League, which wont be a problem for Alba, who is known for his electric pace.

Man Utd have also identified Alba as a long term replacement for Patrice Evra and Fergie would be loath to lose out rivals City again, after missing out on David Silva in 2010. Valencia are not keen on selling Alba but with their financial difficulties, would find it hard to turn down a sizeable offer from the Premier League heavy-weights.