City's chase for defender hit by red tape

Manchester City face a delay in signing Montenegro centre-half Stefan Savic - because he will struggle to gain a work permit.

City boss Roberto Mancini wants the young Partizan Belgrade defender, but his lack of caps means he may have to stay with the Serbian side this season before heading for Eastlands.

The big-spending Mancunians would like £9million-rated Savic immediately, but fear that may not be possible because of the red tape issue.

Partizan would be delighted to agree a deal with City and keep him for another year.