Manchester City are favourites to sign AZ Alkmaar midfielder Adam Maher despite interest from multiple Premier League teams, according to Goal.com.

Arsenal were linked with the 19-year-old during the January transfer window and Chelsea are also believed to be tempted by the prospect of a move for the young playmaker, rated at €9 million.

Talent

Despite his young age, Maher has been involved with the first team at AZ for the past two seasons and has now cemented his place in manager Gertjan Verbeek’s starting 11, scoring five goals and assisting four in 22 Eredivisie appearances this season.

Man City now appear to be in pole position to sign the Dutch international after it was revealed City’s director of football Txiki Begiristain has held talks over a possible move and invited Maher to the Etihad Stadium to watch the Sky Blues in action.

The midfielder could be seen as a potential replacement for Samir Nasri amid rumours that the Frenchman could leave the club at the end of the season.

Preference

Maher is under contract at AZ until 2015 and has spoken previously of his preference to remain in the Netherlands and gain more first-team experience rather than leaving for a big European club and spending his time on the bench.

Dutch giants Ajax and PSV Eindhoven are also keen on securing the youngster’s services, with PSV having had a number of bids rejected in January.

However, with the funds City have at their disposal, they have the ability to table a lucrative offer which both player and club may find difficult to turn down.