United trail City in race for £16m 'Spanish Gerrard'

Manchester City are reportedly leading Manchester United in pursuit of highly-rated Athletic Bilbao youngster Ander Herrera.

The 22-year-old has played a prominent role for Athletic this season as they have enjoyed success both domestically and on the continent; making the final of the Copa del Rey and qualifying for the last four of the Europa League.

Herrera featured in both of Athletic's victories over Manchester United in the last 16 of the latter, and his performances appear to have impressed Sir Alex Ferguson.

But, according to The Sun, United must contest rivals City for the signature of the young midfielder, who has been likened to Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

At this present time it would appear the Etihad Stadium is a more likely destination for Herrera than Old Trafford, with City reportedly having already sent representatives to watch him in action.

Chief scout Rob Newman and football officer Brian Marwood watched the Spaniard in the midweek draw with Granada in La Liga.