We won't be ripped off - Hughes

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Hughes insists he has Man City backing

Underfire Manchester City boss Mark Hughes says the affluent club will not be forced into paying over-inflated prices in the January transfer window.

City are regarded as the richest team in world football after being taken over by an Arab group, but have lost three league matches in succession.

"The owner and the chairman are very astute businessmen," Hughes insisted.

"They understand the value of players and what it will take to make deals happen so won't be taken for a ride."

Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz, Chelsea full-back Wayne Bridge and Portsmouth midfield Lassana Diarra are thought to be some of the players Hughes would like to bring to Eastlands.

The former Blackburn boss did not mention specific targets but commented: "We are going to make sure we do everything we can to bring in the players I know will help us.

"Player acquisition is not an exact science, you try to do your homework and ensure that everything goes through. But even the best-laid plans get compromised at the last minute and then don't go through.

"There may be the danger that prices go up because it is Manchester City that are interested, but I think that people will understand we will not get ripped off."