The transfer deadline day invariably throws up some strange deals, with manager’s taking the last opportunity to spend some money and fill a couple of holes in their squad with unsuitable or left-field choices, and the strangest so far this year is the news that Manchester City are about to sign Roma’s 32 year old Chilean attacking midfielder David Pizarro.

Juventus had thought to be interested in the Roma player, but Mancini has now stolen a march on the Italians as he looks set to sign the player on a deal until the end of the season. Pizarro has been largely out of favour at the capital club so far this term, and would surely only be an option from the bench or as squad cover.

It seems Pizarro is seen by Mancini as a safe option, with Yaya Toure’s absence at the African Cup of Nations leaving a vast hole in the centre of midfield and Mancini’s relationship with the player makes his temporary signing a no-brainer.

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