Manchester City won't give Manchester United a free run at Crystal Palace fullback Nathaniel Clyne.

The Daily Mail says United have expressed firm interest in the highly-rated Crystal Palace right back but their city rivals are preparing a move of their own.

The Etihad Stadium club have watched Clyne, 20, closely over the last few months and continue to monitor his progress with a view to a summer move.

City believe they have the edge over United in the chase because Clyne has the same advisers as their England defender Micah Richards.