Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea all trying to sign Roma defender Kostas Manolas

Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea are all attempting to sign Roma defender Kostas Manolas, according to the player's agent. Manolas, 25, has been locked in negotiations with Roma over a new contract this summer with his agent suggesting earlier in July there is no agreement in sight.

Giallorossi president James Pallotta insists that while the club have recruited a new defender this summer in Juan Jesus with Real Madrid's Nacho looking likely to join him, they will not allow the Greece international to leave.

But Manolas' agent Ioannis Evangelopoulos has put more pressure on the club, however, revealing talks may have broken down with the three Premier League giants watching on.

"The best clubs in Europe want him," he said, Tutto Mercato report. "There isn't just Manchester City, but also United and Chelsea. I haven't spoken with Roma for a while. Will he remain in the capital? No comment."

Kostas moved to Italy following the 2014 World Cup, later revealing he could have ended up at Arsenal. Arsene Wenger's rivals are now eying up the centre-half as they seek to strengthen their own defensive options.

After being snubbed by Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte, City have been linked with a host of defenders ahead of Pep Guardiola's first season at the Etihad Stadium. . Leonardo Bonucci has emerged as target, having also been linked with Chelsea following Antonio Conte's appointment at the club. Any side wishing to prise the 29-year-old away from Turin however must be ready to pay £51m for the 29-year-old, according to The Times.

United meanwhile have already signed a centre-half in 22-year-old Eric Bailly and would be appear to be focusing on strengthening other areas of their side, with Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba wanted by Jose Mourinho.