Roberto Mancini hints Robin van Persie won’t be joining Man City

Roberto Mancini has hinted Robin van Persie will not be joining Manchester City this summer, despite the uncertainty surrounding the Arsenal captain’s future.

The 28-year-old was in prolific form last season for the Gunners, scoring 30 goals in 38 Premier League appearances as he helped Arsène Wenger’s side secure a third-place finish.

Van Persie has a year left on his current contract and his apparent refusal to sign a new deal has inevitably led to speculation linking the Dutchman with a move away.

City has been touted as a possible destination for the former PSV Eindhoven striker but Mancini appeared to suggest the club would be sticking with their current options up front, which include Sergio Aguero and Mario Balotelli.

“Van Persie? He is an Arsenal player and I don’t want to disrespect Wenger,” Mancini told Sky Sport Italia.

“We have four strikers and we will start the pre-season in five days. It’s unlikely there will be major changes in such a short time.”

Mancini is also expecting Bosnia-Herzegovina international Edin Džeko and Carlos Tévez to be at Eastlands next season, while the 47-year-old is keen to keep defender Aleksandar Kolarov.

“Dzeko’s farewell is not expected,” Mancini said. “The interest of Juventus for him? It will be difficult that Edin goes away.

“Kolarov? I myself wanted him to City. He is a great player. If it depends on me, he would remain at the City. I’d love to have him again in the next season but I cannot impose myself on his will.

“Tévez will remain, unless he wants to change team.”

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Read more on: Arsenal, Football transfers, Manchester City, Premier League, Roberto Mancini, Robin van Persie.