According to Italian daily Corriere dello Sport, Manchester United and Manchester City are interested in signing highly-rated Juventus centre-back Giorgio Chiellini .

The 25 year-old is in his fifth year at the Turin club and is seen as a reliable and solid presence at the heart of the Juventus defence. Although Chiellini's contract expires in 2013, his agent, Davide Lippi (son of Italy coach Marcello) is trying to negotiate an extension which would include an improved salary.

Corriere dello Sport reports that given the uncertainty over Chiellini's long-term future, Manchester United and Manchester City are ready to pounce. City boss Roberto Mancini is very familiar with Chiellini from his time in Italy and would be delighted to bring him to Eastlands. The Manchester City central defensive partnership between Kolo Toure and Joleon Lescott has been unconvincing at times this season.

Meanwhile, Sir Alex Ferguson has seen his side suffer from defensive injuries this campaign. He would likely welcome a player of Chiellini's caliber to provide more competition in the Manchester United defence, especially given the ongoing concerns over Rio Ferdinand's physical ability to play through an entire season.