Bad news for Manchester United fans, Manchester City have joined the £15million battle to sign West Ham wonderkid Reece Oxford, reports The Sun.

Scouts from City, Spurs and Manchester United watched the 17-year-old play for England U-19 team against Holland on Friday as he helped his team beat Holland 2-1 to book their place in the Euro Under-19 Championship semi-finals in Germany.

The Hammers, who ruled out a £10m offer from German side Red Bull Leipzig for Oxford, now plan some urgent talks to persuade the defender to sign a new deal. His current contract ends in two years.

United boss Jose Mourinho is hugely interested in the youngster and is preparing to step up his bid to take him to Old Trafford.

Oxford made 12 appearances for West Ham last season, including six in the Premier League.

He made his debut for the Hammers last season in their dramatic victory over Arsenal at the Emirates on the opening weekend of the Premier League.

Oxford’s performance at the Emirates last season, at the age of just 16, was truly breath-taking. He looked effortlessly composed on the ball, positioned himself impeccably, and, most surprisingly, matched the Arsenal side for strength in a 0-2 win.

However, he has struggled to make his mark on the first-team ever since, making just 12 appearances. His performances at Under-21 and Under-19 level have been superb, and West Ham is keen to hold on to the player.

The 17-year-old is not the only player Pep Guardiola has his sights set on. Real Sociedad goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli is a £6.5 million target for the new City boss.

The Argentinian remains his top choice as a backup for England No 1 Joe Hart.