ROBERTO MANCINI HAS played down reports linking Manchester City with a move for Arsenal striker Robin van Persie.
Van Persie, 28, enjoyed the best season of his career last term, netting 37 goals in all competitions.
He has one year remaining on his contract with Arsenal, and is yet to agree a new deal with the north London club.
English Premier League champions City have been heavily linked with a bid for the Netherlands international.
But Mancini has declined to comment on a potential transfer, citing his respect for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
“Van Persie? He is an Arsenal player and I don’t want to disrespect Wenger,” he told Sky 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.”
According to Mancini, strikers Edin Dzeko and Carlos Tevez are unlikely to leave the club, despite Serie A champions Juventus being touted as potential destinations for both players.
“The interest from Juventus for him (Dzeko)? It will be difficult that Edin goes away,” he said.
“Tevez will remain, unless he wants to change team.”
Finally, Mancini also expressed his desire to retain the services of Serbia fullback Aleksandar Kolarov, who is reportedly unhappy at a lack of first-team action last season.
“Kolarov? I myself wanted him at City, he is a great player,” Mancini said.
“If it depends on me, he would remain at City.
“I’d love to have him again in the next season but I cannot impose myself on his will.”
