Roberto Mancini has claimed that he rejected the chance to manage a handful of clubs in favour of staying at Manchester City.

Reports emerged earlier today that the Italian held talks with Ligue 2 side Monaco over a potential deal worth £32m over three years.

However, Mancini has revealed that he turned down the approach, along with several others, to sign an extended contract at the Etihad Stadium.

He said: "Last year I was very close with seven or eight teams but I prefer to stay here."

City travel to West Ham United in Premier League action this weekend.