Manchester City are reportedly close to beating Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur to the signature of Lille star Eden Hazard.

The playmaker has been the subject of transfer speculation in recent months, with the Premier League trio all believed to be ready to launch summer swoops for the 21-year-old.

Despite the Belgium international recently hinting that he is open to a switch to the current English champions, it is believed that United's arch rivals City have stepped up their pursuit of the player, according to Goal.com.

Reports have claimed that the club's executive Patrick Vieira has been an integral instigator in the proposed move after watching the £30m-rated forward on at least two occasions.

Hazard flew to the Etihad Stadium on Monday to watch the home side's 1-0 win over United.