Manchester City are plotting a stunning double swoop on Porto duo – Eliaquim Mangala and Fernando – and are in talks with the Portuguese club to land them on the deadline day for a collective fee of £46m.

Mangala, the French defender, has attracted attentions of Premier League duo Chelsea and Manchester United, but The Times reported yesterday that City are regarded as favourites for his signature.

A summer move for the 22-year-old defender was on the cards, but with fierce competition expected from other rivals, City are looking to cash in now and sign him before the transfer window slams shut.

The Mirror reports that City are prepared to splash out £38m to secure his signature, as they want him to form a formidable defensive partnership with Kompany.

City meanwhile are also interested in landing Mangala’s club team-mate Fernando, who is a reported target of Liverpool and Manchester United.

The 26-year-old, nicknamed as The Octopus, is nearing the end of his contract and City feel they can tie him down for a knock down price in the region of £8m.