Report: Manchester City face battle to sign Porto's Eliaquim Mangala

Manchester City could reportedly face competition from local rivals Manchester United and Premier League giants Chelsea for Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala.

The English champions tried to sign the France international in January, but a move failed to materialise before the close of the winter transfer window.

The 23-year-old is believed to be interested in playing in England's top flight, but City were dealt a blow when the centre-back suggested that he would prefer a move to Chelsea.

According to the Manchester Evening News, United are also a potential destination for the £35m-rated defender, who may wait for an offer from the Red Devils should City fail to convince him to move to the Etihad Stadium.

City have already secured the signature of Mangala's Porto teammate Fernando.