Edinson Cavani Isn't Heading to the Premier League Anytime Soon

After continued speculation, Edinson Cavani appears to have ruled out a transfer away from Napoli.

In an interview with Italian newspaper Il Mattino, the Uruguayan striker responded bluntly to questions surrounding a potential move (via ESPN):

"

Are the big Premier League clubs looking at me? My response can only be Forza Napoli!

"

Such a remark may leave Manchester City and Chelsea fans disappointed.

Both clubs are in the market for a new striker, and have been consistently linked with securing Cavani's services.

For Roberto Mancini, this is another dent in a preseason that has continued to frustrate (via The Independent).

He's already seen City fall behind in the race for Robin van Persie, and now that Cavani has pledged his immediate future to Napoli, he'll have to turn his attention elsewhere.

Before any new faces can arrive at the Etihad, Mancini must oversee the sale of at least one unwanted player. Emmanuel Adebayor's £6 million move to Tottenham has stalled over personal terms, and City now face the possibility of racking up a huge loss on the striker.

Various reports suggest Adebayor may be allowed to leave for free, indicating how desperate the situation has become (via The Daily Mirror).

The potential sales of Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko continue to bubble under, but a lack of concrete offers will ensure the frustration grows for Mancini.

Chelsea, who have been linked with Cavani more consistently than City, will feel an instant replacement for Didier Drogba is needed.

The arrival of players such as Eden Hazard, Oscar and Marko Marin has seen the European Champions' attacking threat grow, but Fernando Torres remains their only striker proven at Premier League level.

While his immediate future resides in Italy, Cavani has suggested a switch to England is possible in the next few years (via ESPN):

"

It is said that English football is art, why not think about it one day if there is that possibility?

"

The Uruguayan's desire to remain at Napoli may have City and Chelsea owners sighing with relief. If he was to depart, only a £78 million bid would seal the deal (via Goal.com).