In a blow to Roberto Mancini's ambitions, one of the most highly coveted players he is after will therefore not come to the Premier League.

"I'm staying for this team, for the affection of the fans, because I am a Roman and because I believe in this project. I'm happy here. I feel good here. I haven't asked anyone to leave. What I promise is that the day I want to leave Roma to win the Champions League or to earn more money, I'll say so publicly."