Rumour: Eliaquim Mangala a prime target for Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City

Eliaquim Mangala in action for Porto FC

French defender Eliaquim Mangala has become the prime target of Premier League giants Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United.

Manuel Pellegrini, the City manager, is keen to bring Mangala, who would cost around £35m, to the Etihad Stadium to partner Vincent Kompany next season. But, now it would be difficult for Manchester City to sign him as sources close to him have stated that he would rather play for Manchester United or Chelsea, as he believes each club is of a greater status compared to Manchester City.

Mangala expressed his desire to play for Chelsea saying, “City or Chelsea? Chelsea, because it is London. It is true that I love the Premier League because it is a spectacular championship.” He also added, “Every player wants to play in the biggest clubs. I am an ambitious player and the team that can help me win titles is the one that interests me.”

Manchester United is in search of quality centre-backs in order to fill in the void created at the back after the departure of stalwarts Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand. Though Mangala is interested to join United, van Gaal has disciplinary issues with the Frenchman.

Joining the tug-of-war are London giants Chelsea, who are also in search of a back-up option in central defence after the departure of David Luiz to Paris St. Germain.

The 23-year old defender has immense power and good physical ability which makes him a prime target of these top-flight clubs. Mangala previously played for Standard Liege before moving to Porto FC in 2011. He has won one Belgian title and two Portuguese Championships in his career.

Having been selected in the French World Cup squad, Mangala has decided to wait until after the World Cup to think about his future as he is hopeful that a good showing in Brazil can increase his potential options.