Manchester City have made two offers to sign River Plate striker Julian Alvarez in a bid to beat rivals Manchester United to his signature, according to reports in South America. The Argentina international frontman looks set to become his country's latest success story - following in the footsteps of a whole host of iconic strikers including Gabriel Batistuta and Sergio Aguero - as he prepares to embark on a European adventure.
The 21-year-old hit 18 goals and registered 7 assists in 21 outings last term in the Argentine Primera Division.
Furthermore, he racked up a total of 24 goals in all competitions while also recording 15 assists.
After starring for River as their centre-forward, Alvarez is now beginning to break into the Argentina national side, where competition for places in attack is fierce.
Now a move to European football beckons and a whole host of clubs including United, Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Juventus and Atletico Madrid have all been linked with his services.
Man City have reportedly set their sights on River Plate forward Julian Alvarez (Image: GETTY)
However, according to TyC Sports in Argentina, Manchester City are keen to sign the player this month before loaning him out to another European club for the rest of the season.
That way, the devastating finisher can begin his adaption to life in Europe before he teams up with Pep Guardiola's squad this summer.
Alternatively, City have also offered to wrap up the deal now while allowing Alvarez to stay with River Plate for six months while they find a replacement.
That way, losing their talismanic forward would not be as damaging, while Alvarez would also be joining up with City for pre-season ahead of a new campaign.
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Guardiola is in the market for a striker having failed to replace legendary figure Aguero following his move to Barcelona at the end of last season.
Erling Haaland remains top of the club's wish-list but it appears Alvarez could now be of interest to the Premier League champions.
Alvarez's River Plate contract is believed to contain a release clause in the region of just £17m.
United were reportedly ready to pay that several weeks ago but the noise appeared to just be speculation.