Milner deal is imminent says Mancini

Milner has been linked with City all summer (GETTY IMAGES)

Roberto Mancini hopes to complete the protracted signing of James Milner by tomorrow at the latest.

The England midfielder is on the verge of sealing his move from Aston Villa, with Stephen Ireland set to move in the other direction.

"I hope we can close it between today and tomorrow," Mancini said at a press conference.

"I think that Milner is a good player, an English player which is important. I think that Milner can play in different positions."

Asked if the deal would involve Ireland, Mancini added: "I hope so.

"We have today and tomorrow to close the deal."