Manchester City have joined Manchester United in the battle to sign Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic, according to reports in Italy.

The Red Devils have been heavily linked with the Serbian international in recent months, but it looks as though Pep Guardiola’s side are also keen.

Milenkovic is reportedly valued at €50m (£45m) by his club with Fiorentina unwilling to let one of their prized assets leave on the cheap.

The 21-year-old has made 18 appearances for the Viola this campaign, mostly as a right-back, although his natural position is in the centre of defence.

Whether United will make a move this month, it seems unlikely following interim boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s latest comments on transfers. The Norwegian has said he doesn’t expect any movement during the January transfer window:

“I’m happy with the squad I’ve got. I don’t expect anyone to come in but obviously, if the club have targeted and identified a few and I think they might fit here, I’ll give my thumbs up. But it’s not just my decision.”

United were expected to strengthen in defence, with Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly, Roma’s Kostas Manolas and Porto’s Eder Militao all having been linked with a move to Old Trafford, in addition to Milenkovic.