City receive transfer blow

Manchester City's reported bid to sign Sampdoria striker Antonio Cassano in January has been ruled out by the Italian outfit.

The Italy international was said to be on Eastlands' chief executive Mark Hughes' shopping list for the next transfer window but his club have ruled out a mid-season move.

Administrator Beppe Marotta said: "Regarding the interest of Manchester City for Cassano I must say that Antonio will not leave Genoa in January.

"Since he arrived at Sampdoria, Antonio has delighted us with his fantastic play and it's normal that this will attract interest from great clubs in Europe, including Manchester City.

"But I wouldn't talk about an open negotiation, there are other clubs that want Antonio."