Manchester City are intensifying their pursuit of AS Roma star Daniele De Rossi.

The Daily Mail says boss Roberto Mancini remains hopeful of prising Italy international De Rossi, with reports in Italy claiming the 29-year-old hard man is set to move to the Etihad Stadium for around £30million.

Roma boss Zdenek Zeman insists he is confident that De Rossi, who only signed a new contract at the Stadio Olimpico in February, will stay at the Serie A club.

"I am convinced that De Rossi stays with us," said Zeman, speaking to Sky Sports.

"He is very important for us and the club has not asked me anything about him. I think he will remain.

"Has Mancini have ever called me? Several times, even when I was at Pescara last year. The last time I heard from him was three weeks ago."