Sky Sports understands Man City are stepping up their interest in Daniele De Rossi after the midfielder's agent flew to England for talks.

Italian midfielder's agent flies into the United Kingdom for talks

understands Manchester City are stepping up their interest in Daniele De Rossi after the midfielder's agent on Thursday flew to England for talks. The Italy international has long been linked with a move to Etihad Stadium and his impressive performances at Euro 2012 only underlined his ability and versatility. De Rossi on Wednesday night delivered another good display in Italy's friendly defeat by England and he could yet become more familiar with British opponents. The Roma star's representative jetted into the United Kingdom for discussions with City and the development comes just days after the Premier League champions signed Jack Rodwell. City boss Roberto Mancini has been frustrated by his club's comparatively limited activity in the market ahead of their first game of the new season against Southampton on Sunday. But if Mancini was able to sign his fellow Italian, De Rossi, he would have little cause to complain about the acquisition of such a top player. The 29-year-old's future has constantly been a subject of debate but, earlier in August, Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini said: "If a monstrous bid materialised we would evaluate it. "But we are not looking for buyers for Daniele, because he is a pillar of our team."