MANCHESTER City is threatening Manchester United's move for Nigeria’s U-17 midfielder, Ramon Azeez.

The youngster won the 'Bronze Ball' as the third best player at the U-17 World Cup held in Nigeria last year and has been likened to Chelsea midfielder, John Obi Mikel.

Azeez has already rejected an offer from City, according to his agent, while United boss, Sir Alex Ferguson is eager to tie up a deal to avoid the same mess that led to Obi Mikel eventually joining Chelsea from Lyn Oslo - via United.

Ifeanyi Abanum, Executive Editor of allnigeriasoccer.com, told tribalfootball.com: "After the U-17 World Cup, he was invited to England for trials by Manchester City, who had closely monitored his performances at the competition.

However,  after spending a few days with the Citizens, he was also invited to Old Trafford for trials. Apparently, Manchester United scouts also had monitored him at the competition held in Nigeria.

"Another big transfer drama is about to unfold and we are all (in Nigeria) watching and waiting."

Abanum adds: "He plays as a defensive midfielder and there is this clamour by Nigerians that he should go to the World Cup. So highly rated by followers of the game here, that they call him the 'new MIKEL OBI'.”