Man City rush to pip Jose Mourinho in race for Parma's McDonald Mariga

In demand: McDonald Mariga is a target of Roberto Mancini and Jose Mourinho Manchester City have rushed through a work permit application forParma's £7million midfielder McDonald Mariga so they can beat JoseMourinho and sign him before tomorrow's 5pm transfer deadline. City have agreed terms with the Serie A club for Mariga. As part ofthe deal for the Kenya international, City striker Valeri Bojinov willtransfer to Parma, where he has been on loan. The move for Mariga has echoes of the transfer window 18 months ago,when City pipped Chelsea to sign Robinho. This time, their rival isMourinho, who wanted to sign the African player for Inter Milan. Mariga, 22, helped Parma win promotion last season and is considered one of best young African players. City are also hoping to agree a fee with Middlesbrough for EnglandUnder-21 winger Adam Johnson. City's best offer, £4.5million, is onlyhalf Boro's asking price. Man City turn to Parma's Mariga after move for Real's Gago breaks downManchester City boss Roberto Mancini ready to wait for new boy Patrick VieiraMAN CITY v Portsmouth: Kolo Toure returns to squad but Patrick Vieira still outMANCHESTER CITY FC

Source: Daily_Mail