Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has begun official talks for Bayern Munich’s £40million rated left back David Alaba, according to an exclusive report in The Sun.

The paper claims that City officials have held meetings with Alaba’s representatives about the potential move in the last two weeks. In addition, the Premier League leaders have set their aim to secure the 24-year-old’s signature for next season.

It is understood, Guardiola has instructed the staff to acquire new defenders in order to replace his current full-backs, with Alaba considered as one of the best left backs available in the world football.

The versatile Austrian left-back can play anywhere on the left side of the pitch, signed a new £75k-per-week five year contract extension with the Bundesliga champions earlier in March.

The Etihad outfit, however, have hinted that they are willing to double the bid if Alaba opts to make the switch to Manchester – should he ever make a move to the Premier League.