Roberto Mancini: 'Mario Balotelli replacement not imminent'

Roberto Mancini has confessed that it is unlikely that Manchester City will bring in a replacement for Mario Balotelli before the end of the transfer window.

The 22-year-old striker will join AC Milan subject to a medical after a deal was agreed between the two clubs on Tuesday.

Balotelli's departure leaves the City boss with Carlos Tevez, Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko as his forward options.

The Premier League champions have been linked with January moves for Napoli frontman Edinson Cavani and Atletico Madrid star Radamel Falcao, but Mancini has hinted that any attacking additions will have to wait until the summer.

He said: "I don't think so because we have two days and it's difficult to buy a good player. In this moment I don't think we can."

City are four points behind rivals Manchseter United at the top of the table following their goalless draw with Queens Park Rangers tonight.