Man City and Man Utd in Dutch defender duel over Terence Kongolo

The dust has barely settled on Manchester City (7/2 to lift the Premier League) and Manchester United’s dramatic derby day clash, but the cross-town rivals are already apparently competing again. This time though, the northwest giants are reportedly engaged in a transfer battle, for the services for Feyenoord defender Terence Kongolo.

Versatile Kongolo can be deployed at both centre half and full back, and has already made 16 appearances for the Rotterdam giants this term, contributing two assists.

Still only 20 years old, Swiss-born Kongolo has three caps for the Netherlands after working his way up through the youth sides, and was part of the Clockwork Orange’s World Cup squad.

Current Red Devils and former Netherlands boss Louis van Gaal rewarded Kongolo with his international debut prior to the World Cup in May, and United will be hoping that faith sways Kongolo’s decision towards Old Trafford.

Van Gaal is certainly suffering from backline blues, coupled with somewhat of an injury crisis, so the Red Devils have been tipped to dip into the market once again in January to draft in further cover for their rickety rearguard.

Kongolo’s existing relationship with Van Gaal could certainly work in their favour, as the Dutch coach is renowned for his ability to nurture and develop youth, with the likes of Tyler Blackett, Paddy McNair and James Wilson playing significant squad roles so far this season.

If United (9/2 to win a trophy) can tempt Kongolo to Old Trafford, however, they may choose to sweeten any deal with Feyenoord by offering the youngster’s services on loan for the rest of this campaign.

Across town, though, United’s neighbours City also have an ace card up their sleeve in this transfer tug-of-war. The Sky Blues have already snapped up Kongolo’s younger brother, 16-year-old Rodney, also from Feyenoord, and will be hoping that a family connection can convince the Dutch starlet to plump for a move to the Etihad instead.