Roberto Mancini has hinted that he will add to his Manchester City squad in the final week of the transfer window but has ruled out a bid for Javi Martinez.
England prospect Jack Rodwell is City's only summer addition so far after he joined from Everton in a reported £15m move.
However, Mancini is still keen to bolster his already-strong ranks and has previously suggested that he is in search of some defensive cover.
Athletic Bilbao's Martinez, who is able to play in central defence and a holding midfield role, could be a perfect fit for the Citizens but Mancini has conceded that his £31m release clause is "too expensive".
"It is difficult, his cost is too big. It is too high for me," said Mancini.
"We have another week but I think today for us it is important to think about Liverpool. I am sure we will do what we want in one week.
"We are working, we can't say a name or how many players, but in the last days we will be working."
City have been linked with Swansea City winger Scott Sinclair and Roma captain Daniele De Rossi.
Joe Fish
