United in Poll Position to Land RVP After City Rejection

Robin van Persie is unlikely to join Manchester City this summer, according to Blues manager Roberto Mancini.

Speaking to reporters in Manchester during City's preparations for the Community Shield, Mancini said: "Van Persie? No, I don't think he will come here."

Mancini's admission would appear to leave the 29-year-old forward with limited options, following his refusal to sign a contract extension at Arsenal.

Van Persie's standing with the Arsenal fans has been damaged by his refusal to agree a new contract, and his recent questioning of the club's ambition.

It appears Manchester United, who have confirmed an interest in signing Van Persie, are now the club most likely to capture his signature.

Having missed out on the title on the final day of last season, United have added Shinji Kagawa and Nick Powell to their squad for the new season, and have been heavily linked with a move for Sao Paulo's Lucas Moura.

City are yet to add to their title winning squad of last season, with Mancini having been uncharacteristically cautious in the transfer window.

Many of City's rivals have required little persuasion to add to their squads in hope of bridging the gap to the 2011/12 league winners. Arsenal have signed both Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud to alleviate the potential loss of Van Persie, while Chelsea have made up for the loss of Didier Drogba by signing Eden Hazard, Marko Marin and Oscar.

Liverpool meanwhile have brought in Fabio Borini to assist their attempts to reach the Champions League after a three-year absence, and Brenden Rodgers also hopes to sign Joe Allen from his former club Swansea City.