Manchester City's pursuit of Napoli star Marek Hamsik could kick Manchester United into action this January. The Daily Star Sunday says City have targeted £20million-rated Hamsik as a possible replacement for Carlos Tevez.

City's ­neighbours Man United have also been linked with the Napoli star, who has been touted as an alternative midfield target to Inter Milan's Wesley Sneijder for Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

But the ­strongest interest now appears to be coming from City.