Sydney FC are locked in a battle with arch-rivals Melbourne Victory for the signature of Luke Brattan, who has gone cold on a prospective move to Turkey.

Brattan, who is now a free agent after the expiry of his contract with Manchester City, was close to signing for the Sky Blues earlier this month but was tempted by a late bid from Super Lig outfit Yeni Malatyaspor.

Luke Brattan looks set for a switch to either Sydney FC or Melbourne Victory. Credit:AAP

The 29-year-old, however, ultimately turned down the opportunity for “personal reasons” after travelling to view the club's set-up in Turkey's eastern outskirts and now appears set to continue in the A-League, having played on loan at Melbourne City for the last three seasons.

The Herald understands Sydney coach Steve Corica remains interested in Brattan as a possible replacement for Josh Brillante, who, incidentally, has moved in the other direction to succeed Brattan at City.