Manchester City to battle Real Madrid for La Liga defender?

Manchester City will reportedly go head to head with Real Madrid for the signature of Real Betis defender Junior Firpo in this summer's transfer window.

Junior only made his first-team debut for Betis in February 2018, having come through the youth system.

The 22-year-old has been plagued by injuries since the latter stages of 2018, but has still made 22 appearances for his Spanish club during the 2018-19 campaign.

According to reports in Spain, City are prepared to battle Madrid for the left-sided player, who can operate in both defence and midfield.

Firpo is believed to have a £43m release clause in his current deal, which is due to expire in June 2023.

While City have struggled in the left-back position this season, Madrid have also had their own problems with neither Marcelo nor Sergio Reguilon convincing for long periods.