New Sampdoria signing Antonio Cassano admits he rejected an offer from Manchester City.

On-loan from Real Madrid, Cassano confirmed he had received an offer of nearly £3m per season from Sven Goran Eriksson's Manchester City, but turned it down.

"I wanted Samp and everyone spoke highly of the club. Also Roberto Mancini played here for 15 years. I don't have a house yet, but I want a villa on the coast, because to wake up in the morning with the sun and the sea makes me happy," said the Bari-born forward.

"I really missed Italy. I felt that I needed to be back here. Away from my own country, I just don't feel right."