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Edin Dzeko 'can improve' Roma but deal not up to me, says Francesco Totti

Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko (C) vies with Roma's Seydou Keita
Image: Roma face Manchester City in the International Champions Cup on Tuesday

Francesco Totti says he will not try to convince Edin Dzeko to join Roma while they are both on tour in Australia - but says the Manchester City striker would be a smart signing.

Manchester City face the Serie A side in the International Champions Cup in Melbourne on Tuesday as both sides get ready for the new season.

Reports in Italy claim Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini has flown to England to negotiate a deal with City, but Totti says he will be keeping a respectful distance when the sides meet.

"It's not down to me to convince him," he told reporters in Melbourne on Friday.

Dzeko: De Bruyne should stay
Dzeko: De Bruyne should stay

Edin Dzeko believes Premier League target Kevin De Bruyne should stay at Wolfsburg

"I'm sure that if he should come to AS Roma he can surely help us. He's a world class player and has a very good eye for goal."

Manuel Pellegrini’s side kicked off their tour Down Under with a 2-0 win against Adelaide United behind closed doors, before taking on Melbourne City on Saturday ahead of clashes with Roma and Real Madrid.

Roma, meanwhile, have one eye on the Champions League next season and coach Rudi Garcia says they are determined to make the knockout stage this term, after winning just one of their six group games in the last tournament.

Rudi Garcia
Image: Rudi Garcia finished third in their Champions League group last season

"We want to improve and get one round further at least," he told reporters.

"I'm sure we have gained valuable experience last year and I'm sure it will be a valuable lesson."

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