Manchester City are set to challenge Arsenal for the free transfer signing of Dani Alves, led by Pep Guardiola, according to reports in Brazil.

Brazilian outlet Globoesporte report that Manchester City were originally looking at Joao Cancelo for their right-back position, but Alves’ impressive performances at Copa America have moved him up their shortlist.

At the same time, City aren’t expected to sign anyone at right-back unless they offload Danilo. They have two right-backs already and no room for another non-homegrown player in their squad. That could open up the door for Alves to move to Arsenal instead.

Globoesporte report Arsenal have already discussed a potential transfer for Alves, as they look to fill the gap in the team in Hector Bellerin’s absence.

Arsenal will be wary of signing another ageing right-back after Stephan Lichtsteiner struggled so badly last season, but Alves’ showing at Copa America suggests he still has something left in him.

On a free transfer for the season, giving Hector Bellerin time to recover, it could be a good move. Whether Alves would consider a project like Arsenal’s at this stage of his career, where the target is simply to get back into the Champions League, is another matter.