• Premier League

Mancini poised to pounce for De Rossi

ESPN staff
November 18, 2011
Daniele De Rossi's Roma contract is set to expire © PA Photos
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Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is keeping a close eye on Daniele De Rossi's contract situation at Roma and will make a move for the midfielder if negotiations collapse.

De Rossi's contract runs out at the end of the season and, despite once saying he would never play for another team, the Rome-born Italian recently hinted he may quit his hometown club for a stint abroad after the latest round of talks reached an impasse.

City have regularly been linked with a bid for the 28-year-old Italy international and Mancini has opened the door to a move to the Premier League.

"It's always difficult to get your hands on a Romanista who plays for Roma," Mancini told the Corriere dello Sport. "As a result, I wouldn't be surprised if he renewed his contract. But, if De Rossi is one day available on the market then Manchester City will be ready, as will Real Madrid, Chelsea and all the big clubs.

"He's a top player, one of those few players who can get into the very best teams in the world. He's a complete midfielder, with class and experience."

Roma president Thomas DiBenedetto remains confident the club can overcome the current deadlock in De Rossi's contract talks and secure a new deal for the highly-rated midfielder.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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