Manchester United are ready to challenge rivals Manchester City for Inter Milan's Mario Balotelli, according to Sky Sport Italia.
Despite the player's well documented verbal tussles with former coach Jose Mourinho at the San Siro, the 19-year-old is rated as one of the hottest talents in Italian football.
Balotelli's agent, Mino Raiola, has recently confirmed that City have tabled a bid for his client but United are apparently now keen to stop their rivals from taking Balotelli to Eastlands.
According to reports, United have already alerted the Inter management of their intention to challenge their neighbours for Balotelli's signature.
Balotelli has hinted about a move to England despite previously assuring Inter that he wanted to stay at the San Siro.
If the former does come true, the offer of Champions League football could well tip the balance in United's favour.
