Mancini Looks To Bolster Ranks With Duo

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has today confirmed his interest in 23-year-old Real Madrid midfielder Fernando Gago and another former Arsenal star, Mathieu Flamini- now of AC Milan.

Flamini has struggled to make his presence felt so far in Serie A and has found playing time limited. With the World Cup on the horizon, a move could well be in the offing.

The defensive midfielder, who has been moved to right-back during his time in Italy was linked with a loan move earlier this week, however Milan claimed at the time that they were yet to receive an official offer.

Real Madrid's young Argentinian international midfielder Gago has also found himself on the bench more often than not and has been linked with a move, although Real boss Manuel Pellegrini has stated that he believes Gago can still make a contribution to team.

Roberto Mancini is keen to bolster the ranks after a series of injuries has left the squad thread-bare.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, the City manager stated: 'I need players. I hope that Vieira is fit for the return.

'Perhaps Real Madrid will give me Gago, maybe Milan (give me) Flamini...'

These two loan moves, along with the short-term deal for Patrick Viera suggest that Manchester City are already looking to make the club financially viable, an issue which was raised earlier in the month when the latest financial figures were released.

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