Man City boss Mancini admits defeat in pursuit of Arsenal's Van Persie

Man City gives up hope of signing Van Persie, United in driver's seat

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has given up hope of signing Arsenal star striker Robin van Persie .

Mancini was desperate to bring the striker to the Etihad, but faced stiff competition from Manchester United and Serie A giants Juventus.

Mancini has admitted his club is no longer in the race after it emerged that United boss Sir Alex Ferguson had stayed in Britain while his team were in Norway in a bid to force through a 20 million pound deal for Van Persie.

When asked about the Gunners star, the City boss said: "Van Persie? No, I don't think he will come here."

United now expect to get the coveted signature of last season's Premier League top goal scorer by the time the new campaign kicks off on August 19, The Daily Mail reports.

The club also expects to sign up young Brazilian Lucas Moura in the coming days. (ANI)