City on brink of Ballotelli and Milner deals

Manchester City were today on the verge of signing Mario Balotelli, while another of Mancini's targets, Aston Villa's James Milner, was also expected to sign for the north west club.

Roberto Mancini told a press conference that the club was close to signing the 20-year-old Italy striker.

The City boss said: “We are close with Balotelli. Hopefully today or tomorrow. Mario is on his way here today.”

However, Milner’s move may have to wait until after the opening weekend of the Barclays Premier League season.

Mancini said: “We need another two or three days for this situation. We need everyone to be happy.”

The City manager seemed to put an end to Craig Bellamy’s time at Eastlands by suggesting he will not be included in his 25-man squad for the coming league season.

He said: “I have to choose 25. The rest must find another team. Craig is out of the list.”