Manchester City closing in on Daniele De Rossi

Manchester City are reported to be closing in a deal for Roma playmaker Daniele De Rossi in a move that will appease Roberto Mancini.The City boss has wanted to sign the Italian international since last summer but the club's money men are believed to have refused to stump up the cash to make the switch happen.
De Rossi then appeared to be completely off the radar in February when he signed a new contract to keep him with the Serie A side until at least 2017.However, Mancini has now reportedly got his way after complaining about a lack of transfer activity this summer from the reigning Premier League champions in comparison to many of their top rivals.He has been on at football director Brian Marwood to support him in his bid for the 28-year-old, and a deal worth just under £24m for De Rossi is said to be imminent.
The Roma vice-captain has won 78 caps for his country and played a key role for Italy as they reach the final of Euro 2012, which they lost 4-0 to Spain.Mancini has never made a secret of his admiration for the player, saying back in January: "De Rossi is a champion and would be the perfect man to improve City."