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Mancini to Wenger: I won’t sign Nasri if…

Comment: 0 August 22nd, 2011 by: admin

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has issued a stern warning to his Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger – that the deal involving Samir Nasri will be called off if the latter is allowed to play in a Champions League fixture on Wednesday.

The Gunners face Udinese in the second leg of their qualifier and Wenger had earlier hinted that he needs all his experienced players, including Nasri, in their coming European assignment.

But Mancini is frowning on that idea. He wants Nasri to be on his side before the transfer window closes on August 31.

However, the 25-million pound deal to bring the French midfielder to Eastlands has taken a long route to be finalised due to disputes on agents’ commissions.

Mancini said he is hoping the talented playmaker would finally relocate to City in the coming days. But his apprehension grew when Wenger fielded in Nasri in their losing Premier League fixture against Liverpool last Saturday. This made Mancini speculate that he would be used anew in City’s coming game versus the Italian outfit.

“If he plays in the Champions League for Arsenal, it is a big problem,’’ said Mancini. “I don’t know if I would still sign him but hopefully we will be close in the next 24 hours. We still have 10 days. I hope he (Nasri) is not the last one in.’’

Wenger’s side hold a flimsy 1-0 lead over Udinese who will host the second leg at Stadio Communale Friuli.

Meanwhile, City found themselves at the top of the Premier League this early after clinching a 3-2 victory at Bolton on Sunday.

It was the second win in two matches for City who has not won the English championship since 1968. They opened the season with a 4-0 swamping of newcomers Swansea at home.

David Silva, Gareth Barry and Edin Dzeko provided the goals in the latest triumph as City took first spot on goal difference from Wolverhampton Wanderers who downed Fulham 2-0.

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