Roberto Mancini: Sergio Aguero can emulate Lionel Messi

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has claimed that Sergio Aguero can match Lionel Messi's prolific goalscoring form for Barcelona.

Messi scored 73 goals in all competitions this season and Aguero - who netted 30 in his first campaign in English football - can emulate his Argentine teammmate, according to Mancini.

The Italian said: "Carlos Tevez has reached his maximum potential. Aguero, who is 23, on the other hand, has not having scored 24-25 goals in his first season in the Premier League.

"If you listen to me, Kun will become like Messi, someone who scores once or twice a game."

Mancini is believed to be planning a bid for Arsenal striker Robin van Persie and is reportedly eager to pair the Dutch striker with Aguero.