Manchester City and Liverpool are reportedly set to battle it out for the signature of Atalanta BC defender Giorgio Scalvini.

The 18-year-old has made 32 appearances for Atalanta, where he has also chipped in with two goals, while he made his debut for Italy in a UEFA Nations League defeat to Germany in June.

Scalvini has since gone on to appear in friendlies against Albania and Austria, and his progress has caught the attention of a number of Europe's biggest clubs.

Tottenham Hotspur were originally believed to be interested in the youngster, but according to Manchester Evening News, Manchester City and Liverpool have also entered the race.

The report claims that Juventus also are keen on signing the versatile player, who is comfortable playing at centre-back or in defensive midfield.

Scalvini has helped his side keep five clean sheets in his 11 appearances this season, while he scored the winner in a 1-0 victory over Roma in September. body check tags ::