Manchester City are stepping up their pursuit of Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke.

City chiefs are in the market for a new midfield addition and have Koke and Juventus ace Paul Pogba under consideration.

El Mundo Deportivo says City are competing with Barcelona for Spain international Koke.

Atletico would be reluctant to lose the 22 year-old, but do not have the cash power to resist any major bid for the youngster.

In a straight shootout with Barca, City could have a distinct advantage if the Catalans' appeal against a 2015 transfer ban is rejected this week.