Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini admits that he tried to buy Marek Hamšík while he was at Inter Milan - fuelling suggestions that he will try and lure the Napoli star.
The 22-year-old gained a worldwide reputation following a series of top performances at Napoli and several club's among Europe's elite are believed to be keeping tabs on the midfielder.
Reports suggest a bid of at least €30 million would be accepted by the Serie A side.
"When I coached Inter, I asked for Hamšík," revealed Mancini to the the Italian press.
"I really wanted the Slovakian but Napoli were quicker than us.
"I am not at all surprised that the major European clubs are interested in him. He is a real talent."
Hamšík is tied to the Partenopei until June 2014 and president Aurelio De Laurentiis has insisted he will not be leaving the San Paolo any time soon.
The 22-year-old gained a worldwide reputation following a series of top performances at Napoli and several club's among Europe's elite are believed to be keeping tabs on the midfielder.
Reports suggest a bid of at least €30 million would be accepted by the Serie A side.
"When I coached Inter, I asked for Hamšík," revealed Mancini to the the Italian press.
"I really wanted the Slovakian but Napoli were quicker than us.
"I am not at all surprised that the major European clubs are interested in him. He is a real talent."
Hamšík is tied to the Partenopei until June 2014 and president Aurelio De Laurentiis has insisted he will not be leaving the San Paolo any time soon.
