Mancini wants Nasri done

Although the transfer deadline is not until the end of the month, the next three days could prove decisive if Mancini is to land his man.

Nasri played for the Gunners in the Premier League on Saturday and, if he was to do the same when Arsenal face Udinese in their crucial Champions League qualifier on Wednesday, he would be unable to play for City in the group stages of the competition.

Mancini admitted that could force him to look at other options and expressed his frustration that the situation has dragged on for so long.

"For 40 days I've hoped in two days, three days (it would be done) - I don't know why we haven't closed it," said the Italian.

"It's a big problem (if he plays for Arsenal against Udinese) but I'm sure we can close in 24 hours, maybe 48. For Nasri it will be important he can play in all the Champions League matches."

City beat Bolton 3-2 away from home on Sunday while Arsenal went down 2-0 at home to Liverpool on Saturday lunchtime to increase the pressure upon manager Arsene Wenger.

The Gunners have already lost star midfielder Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona while Nasri has been booed by some supporters for a perceived lack of loyalty.