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Mancini jokes: "I'll sign Ronaldo for £200 million!"

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored over 50 goals for Madrid this season © Getty Images

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Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has ridiculed rumours linking the club to a £150 million purchase of Cristiano Ronaldo.

The majority of Friday's national newspapers led on the Ronaldo story, insisting he could be tempted from Madrid, where he is reportedly unhappy with boss Jose Mourinho.

However, the £150 million price tag - almost double what Madrid paid to Manchester United for the player - always seemed like a fantasy figure, and Mancini confirmed as much in Friday's press conference.

Asked if he would be signing Ronaldo, Mancini replied: "Yes. We sign Cristiano Ronaldo for £200 million!"

The follow-up question suggested the Italian may be speaking sarcastically, to which he answered: "I think so. I don't know why this comes up. I know nothing about this. Cristiano Ronaldo is a fantastic player but I don't think he can leave Real Madrid.

"I could [sign him] after the FA Cup final," joked Mancini, referring to reports in the aftermath of the Wembley showpiece linking him to a plethora of top names. "Ronaldo, Messi, Fabregas and Iniesta if possible! I don't think it is possible!"

The City boss became more serious when quizzed about skipper Carlos Tevez, who told an Argentinian radio station that he wants to leave the Eastlands club. Mancini refused to discuss the matter, insisting no words will stop the saga from continuing.

"I don't want to answer a question about Carlos. Otherwise we will never finish this. It is better to focus on the big game, it's really important for us. After, we can speak about Carlos."

Asked if Sunday's game with Bolton will be Tevez's last for the club, Mancini replied: "I don't think so."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.