Manchester City are ready to step up their efforts to beat Manchester United and Chelsea to the signing of Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote, according to The Mirror.
City boss Roberto Mancini has reportedly sent scouts to monitor the Ivorian’s progress during the upcoming African Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. 25-year-old Tiote has also attracted interest from United and Chelsea, who were both believed to be willing to offer up to £25 million to secure his services.
He joined the Magpies for £3.5 million in the summer of 2010 and has gone on to become a key player in the side as well as a real favourite among the Geordie faithful.
Should he move to the Etihad, it is likely that Nigel de Jong will move closer to an exit, with the Dutchman having struggled for playing time this season.
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