Neymar to Manchester United: Rivals Manchester City 'set to challenge for Brazilian ace'

The Brazilian has been chiefly among United’s first-choice transfer targets for almost 18 months

Barcelona forward Neymar is wanted by both Manchester United and Manchester City (Getty Images)

Manchester United are preparing to go head-to-head with Manchester City to sign Barcelona superstar Neymar, according to reports.

The Brazilian has been chiefly among United’s first-choice transfer targets for almost 18 months but financial differences have so far proven too wide for a deal to be struck.

According to the Sun, prospective City manager Pep Guardiola has joined the race to lure Neymar to England, sparking a dramatic tug-of-war between the two Manchester clubs.

The 24-year-old has scored 21 goals in 29 appearances for the Champions League holders this season but City are expected to back Guardiola with the full weight of their financial power when the Spaniard replaces Manuel Pellegrini at the end of the season.

United, too, are planning a summer overhaul with Louis van Gaal likely to leave Old Trafford in the summer. Jose Mourinho, Ryan Giggs and Mauricio Pochettino have been suggested as possible replacements.

The report states that Neymar’s brand is the sole focus of his representatives. It is a long-term strategy that they hope will establish him as the world’s biggest and best footballer.