Lyon's Fred Linked With City Move

Brazilian forward Fred is in the sights of big-spending Manchester City.

The 24-year-old has barely been involved in first team affairs at Lyon thi sseason, following the rise and rise of fellow striker Karim Benzema.

Paris Saint-Germain and Real Betis, among others, have shown an interest in the former Cruzeiro man, but City seem to have joined the race for the international.

However, despite Fred's pedigree in France, it is thought that he would be a second-choice target for the Citizens, behind the likes of Dimitar Berbatov.

Les Gones are eager to sell the striker, whom they acquired in 2005, but will not accept a loan deal. As such, should City opt to make a bid in excess of 12 million euros (£9m) then they woul dalmost certainly find themselves in negotiation with the player.

Lyon boss Alain Perrin, however, has said that "the door is open" for Fred to return to first team action in France.