Manchester City are set to let Lukas Nmecha leave on loan, sparking a battle between Championship sides for his signature, reliable football journalist Alan Nixon reports.

Pep Guardiola is willing to let Nmecha head out on loan to gain some valuable first-team experience, with Blackburn Rovers and Swansea City hot in pursuit of the youngster.

Blackburn are in pole position to capture the England youth international but Swansea will not let Tony Mowbray's men have an easy ride in this transfer chase.

Nmecha made his first-team debut in the EFL Cup last season, scoring a penalty in the shoot-out against Leicester City.

The 19-year-old has impressed at age group levels but now needs to add to his handful of senior appearances while out on loan.

Blackburn have a vacancy up top after Adam Armstrong returned to Newcastle United and Nmecha could fill that.

The Verdict

Signing players without first-team experience is always a risk but Nmecha has a lot of natural ability.

He needs to show that he can step up and make a name for himself in the senior game.

At Blackburn, he would get ample opportunities to demonstrate his goal scoring credentials, while Swansea could also use him if they lose Jordan Ayew and Wilfried Bony.

Blackburn and Swansea fans - Would you like to sign Nmecha? Let us know below...