Manchester City to beat rivals to Koke?

Manchester City are close to agreeing a deal for Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke, according to reports.

The 22-year-old Spain international has a £47million buy-out clause in his contract, and is understood to be considered a potential long-term replacement for Yaya Toure by Manuel Pellegrini.

Chelsea and Manchester United have also shown an interest in Koke, but it is City who are currently ahead in the race for his signature as sporting director Txiki Begiristain has already begun negotiations with his opposite number, Jose Luis Caminero, and the Madrid club's president Enrique Cerezo, according to the Daily Star.

Koke has made 129 appearances for Atletico Madrid and scored 14 goals since making his debut in 2009.