Although efforts to secure the services of Samir Nasri from Arsenal are continuing, even if the French midfielder signed it would now be too late for him to be involved in the Premier League opener against Swansea on Monday night.
Despite being labelled the richest club in the world thanks to the wealth of Abu Dhabi-based owner Sheikh Mansour, it was into July before the Blues added to last season's squad with the additions of Gael Clichy from Arsenal and defender Stefan Savic from Partizan Belgrade.
Frustration: Roberto Mancini wanted a speedier conclusion to his transfer business
They spent a club record ?38million on striker Sergio Aguero less than three weeks ago, and so far he has not played a game.
With the future of skipper Carlos Tevez remaining uncertain, it adds up to a chaotic build-up for Mancini.
The Italian is acutely aware his side dropped five precious points before the end of August last year, so it is little wonder he is worried about the damaging effect it could have on his team this time around.
'It is not important whether you are the richest club or not,' said Mancini.
'The market is difficult. I understand that.
New blood: Sergio Aguero has been signed from Atletico Madrid
'But when you have your targets, it is important to go very hard.
'It was important to have these players for pre-season because it is there that you prepare for the season. At the moment, we don't have these players.
'I asked and I hope we can have them this week.
'But last year it was the same. In the first three games we lost against Sunderland and drew at Tottenham. That is why it is important to have them before.'
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Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail