Spain international Isco wants to join Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City

Malaga midfielder Francisco R. Alarcon 'Isco' celebrates his goal against Deportivo de La Coruna (EPA)

Manchester City will land the Spain international Isco ahead of Real Madrid, after the Malaga midfielder vowed to follow manager Manuel Pellegrini to the Etihad.

The 21-year-old has been the No 1 target for City's director of football, Txiki Begiristain, for some time, but Real Madrid had intervened and met Isco's father and agent last week.

However, despite Madrid's interest Isco said last night: "Pellegrini has been my footballing father and I know that he wants me in his new project and I would like to continue with him."

The midfielder even told reporters at Spain's Under-21 headquarters in Madrid: "I still need to work on my English though."

Real Madrid's president, Florentino Perez, is desperate to land a big signing before June elections and is worried that the club will not be able to prise Gareth Bale away from Tottenham. Isco had become a late alternative.

"Real Madrid is one of the best clubs in the world but my priority is to play," Isco said. "This is a very important decision for my future and I don't want to get it wrong."