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Cape Town - Brescia face a real battle to keep hold of young star Sandro Tonali, with Juventus and Manchester City set to go head-to-head for his signature.
The Italy Under-21 starlet is considered one of the brightest talents in Serie A and his club have already placed a £40 million valuation on the teenager, despite him only breaking through this season.
City's scouts had been watching the 19-year-old Tonali in the youth ranks and it is understood the champions asked Brescia to keep them firmly updated on his situation.
And reports in Turin have confirmed Juventus fear their main rival is Pep Guardiola at the Etihad, who himself had two separate short stints at Brescia towards the end of his playing career.
Tonali stands out for all the right reasons and, for someone so young, it is easy to see why early comparisons are being made to former Italy legend Pirlo.
The youngster is composed in possession and his long passing range leaves his admirers positively drooling, having easily proved a standout in Brescia's youth ranks.
Tonali has made seven first-team appearances this term and scored one goal, with the Italian press already in overdrive as to his undoubted talents.
The fact Brescia have even put a price on his head has alerted the Citizens, who may have to move quicker than anticipated, with Juve's bosses conducting a charm offensive of their own.
The Old Lady, however, fear City's deep pockets could yet squeeze them out. The Italian giants cannot afford to meet Tonali's £40 million valuation.
Juve have spent around £300 million on new faces during the past 18 months, including £100 million on signing superstar Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid.
City do possess their own midfield gem in academy graduate Phil Foden, so it would be intriguing to see how the Stockport-born starlet would view things if a move for Tonali did transpire.
- TeamTalk Media
