Man City steal a march on Chelsea for Brazilian star

Manchester City have edged ahead of Chelsea in the race to sign highly-rated Lazio midfielder Felipe Anderson by confirming an interest in him, according to the Brazilian’s agent.

The 21-year-old has emerged as one of Serie A’s stand-out performers this season and has alerted England’s elite after netting four times in his last five league outings.

His representative, Stefano Castagna, has confirmed City’s interest in his client but says that the Brazil Under-21 international is happy enough to stay in the Italian capital.

“The rapport with the club has always been excellent and in this case our interests coincided with those of the directors,” he told Radiosei.

“It was not difficult to reach an agreement for a renewal. The president and his staff deserve praise and we are very happy with the faith shown in us.

“It’s a good sign that Manchester City are coming to see him, as that means he is doing very well. He has just signed a new deal and is very happy in Rome.

“I see no particular problem in keeping him, even without Champions League qualification. Playing in that tournament would be ideal, but the Europa League is good too.”