Bianchi to join City: Reggina

Rolando Bianchi is poised to become Sven-Goran Eriksson’s first signing as Manchester City boss after Reggina confirmed they have reached a “preliminary agreement” for the sale of the Italian striker to the Premier League club.

The 24-year-old was the fourth top-scorer in Serie A last season with 18 goals and has been courted by several clubs across Europe.

But City appear to be in pole position after Reggina admitted a deal was close.

Reggina president Pasquale Foti told PA Sport: “We have reached a preliminary agreement with Manchester City for the permanent transfer of Rolando Bianchi to the English club in a €13m (£8.8m) transfer deal.

“The deal will be completed on Wednesday.”

Bianchi played a key role as Reggina retained their Serie A status last season - the Calabrian team finished 14th, just one point clear of the drop zone.