Manchester duo chase Axel Witsel

Premier League title rivals Manchester United and Manchester City are both reportedly interested in signing Benfica defensive midfielder Axel Witsel.

The 23-year-old Belgian international has featured in every league game this season for Benfica, who currently sit second and just three points behind champions Porto in the Primeira Liga table.

Witsel also starred as the Portuguese side drew home and away against United on their way to winning Group C in the Champions League.

Sir Alex Ferguson and Roberto Mancini now look likely to compete for the player's services, according to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo.

Witsel signed a five-year deal when he joined from Standard Liege in the summer and it has been suggested that Benfica would demand £25m to allow him to leave.