Man City 'make two offers to sign Julian Alvarez' and steal striker from Man Utd clutches

Manchester City have made two offers to sign River Plate striker Julian Alvarez in a bid to beat rivals Manchester United to his signature, according to reports in South America. The Argentina international frontman looks set to become his country's latest success story - following in the footsteps of a whole host of iconic strikers including Gabriel Batistuta and Sergio Aguero - as he prepares to embark on a European adventure.

The 21-year-old hit 18 goals and registered 7 assists in 21 outings last term in the Argentine Primera Division.

Furthermore, he racked up a total of 24 goals in all competitions while also recording 15 assists.

After starring for River as their centre-forward, Alvarez is now beginning to break into the Argentina national side, where competition for places in attack is fierce.

Now a move to European football beckons and a whole host of clubs including United, Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Juventus and Atletico Madrid have all been linked with his services.

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Guardiola is in the market for a striker having failed to replace legendary figure Aguero following his move to Barcelona at the end of last season.

Erling Haaland remains top of the club's wish-list but it appears Alvarez could now be of interest to the Premier League champions.

Alvarez's River Plate contract is believed to contain a release clause in the region of just £17m.

United were reportedly ready to pay that several weeks ago but the noise appeared to just be speculation.

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Nonetheless, the Red Devils have continued to circle as the race for the attacker intensifies.

The player's agent Fernando Hidalgo was in Europe at the start of the year for several important meetings with clubs.

It's claimed he met with officials in Manchester, London, Madrid and Milan as part of his plan to sound out his client's next move.

United did allegedly meet with Hidalgo, although the club are yet to make their move for Alvarez.