[Mighty T.A.L.]

Manchester City are set to land Reggina striker Rolando Bianchi in a €13million(£8.7million) deal, according to reports in Italy.

City have jumped to the front of the queue to land the 24-year-old, who was the fourth top-scorer in Serie A last season.

Newly promoted giants Napoli and Juventus were both keen on keeping Bianchi in Italy, whilst Arsenal and Porstmouth were also strongly linked - but it seems City are firm favourites to clinch his signature.

Reggina president Lillo Foti has confirmed that Bianchi was set to be sold to a foreign club.

"The operation should be done in the next few hours," said Foti.

"Will he go abroad? There is a good possibility.

"The boy would like to remain in Italy, to have the chance with the national team - but there are important offers and he has the ability and characteristics to assert himself, without being here.

"Juventus and Napoli both said they would satisfy our demands - that was in excess of €10million - but the two clubs have done nothing."

With a move looking likely, Bianchi has stressed that he would have few problems with plying his trade away from Italy.

"I could go to a foreign club," Bianchi told Rai Sport.

"I have never discarded any opportunity, from an Italian point of view to stay in Italy does appeal - but that is difficult.

"Then there is the consideration of the other offers which are foreign."

Source: Skysports