Mixed reports over Flamini

A story that came out of nowhere this morning with Sky Sports going with a report that Mathieu Flamini was poised to sign a loan deal until the end of the season:

Sky Sports News understands AC Milan's Mathieu Flamini is set to move to Manchester City in a loan deal until the end of the season.

Roberto Mancini is to raid Italy for a second time since taking over at Eastlands, with an approach for Flamini at the top of his agenda.

Not a great deal of substance there I'm sure you'd agree, and the MEN subsequently reports is current club, Milan, as dismissing the notion of a move:

AC Milan have not heard from Manchester City regarding French midfielder Mathieu Flamini. Flamini has been strongly linked with a loan move to the Premier League club in the January transfer window.

We have heard rumours regarding possible interest from Manchester City for Flamini," AC Milan sporting director Ariedo Braida said. "But for the time being, there has been no official offer, interest or talks between AC Milan and Manchester City.

Flamini is an AC Milan player."

I'm sure Flamini would be a useful acquisition in terms of providing depth and cover in a number of positions, but I'm not convinced he would be a good longer term signing.

I'm not convinced either that Flamini would be overly keen on a move that in effect would be a like for like situation.