Club president demands 'astronomical sum' from Man City and Man Utd for key transfer target as contact made

Manchester City and Manchester United have both reportedly identified one of their key transfer targets for January - but face a major stumbling block.

The two Manchester clubs have differing transfer priorities in January, with City on the lookout for a defensive midfielder to cover for Rodri and the likely sale of Kalvin Phillips.

United, meanwhile, need reinforcements all over the pitch, although FFP restrictions may limit exactly what they can do.

But City reportedly have their eye on defensive talents too, especially with John Stones currently injured and Ruben Dias having missed spells through injury this term.

Their key defensive target is reportedly 18-year-old Lille centre-back Leny Yoro, who has been a breakout player in Ligue 1 this term.

According to French outlet Le10 Sport, both City and United have made contact with the 2021 Ligue 1 champions over a move for the young defender, who recently produced a starring display in Lille's 1-1 draw with PSG earlier this month.

It is claimed, however, that Lille will not allow him to leave for a small fee, and see the youngster as an integral part of their side in the years to come.

As a result, therefore, club president Olivier Letang has reportedly told both City and United that they will have to shell out a staggering €90 million if they want to sign Yoro in either of the upcoming transfer windows.

It is added that Lille have a 'very strong' hope that they can extend the young defender's contract, although are said to have admitted that it may be difficult to keep him at the club.

Elsewhere, Liverpool and PSG are also said to be monitoring the defender - with the reigning French champions having had the advantage of witnessing the 18-year-old face them earlier this month.

But all of those clubs have been quoted the same €90 million asking price, meaning they may have to look elsewhere in January at least.