• Talks sanctioned for 24-year-old, currently at the World Cup • Cash-strapped Valencia yet to discuss a fee with Man City

This article is more than 10 years old

This article is more than 10 years old

Manchester City have been given permission to hold talks with Valencia's winger David Silva over a move to the Premier League. Cash-strapped Valencia have already been forced to sell David Villa to Barcelona this summer and now look poised to offload Silva.

The 24-year-old, who is currently with the Spain squad at the World Cup finals, has repeatedly been linked with a switch to England, with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United mooted as admirers.

Champions Chelsea are also rumoured to be fans of Silva, with the attacking midfielder recently admitting he would be open to a move to Stamford Bridge.

However, it now appears City have stepped up the hunt for the player after being given the go-head to discuss a deal.

Valencia confirmed Roberto Mancini's side have been allowed to meet Silva, but stated no agreement has been reached regarding a price.

"As has been said, there is interest from Manchester City and we have permitted them to talk to the player, but we have reached no agreement and we have not talked about a fee," said Valencia's deputy chairman Javier Gomez.

Juan Manuel Mata has also been linked with a move away from the Mestalla, with reports claiming he would join Villa at Barcelona.

Gomez, however, has rejected that piece of speculation and has told reporters that no negotiations are taking place regarding a deal for Mata.