Hughes showcases new signings in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) - Manchester City's talks with Arsenal about buying striker Emmanuel Adebayor are at an "advanced stage," according to manager Mark Hughes.

Hughes, who is in Abu Dhabi to showcase his latest signings to City's owner Sheikh Mansour, said he expects more top players to join the team before the end of the transfer window.
"Talks are going on (about Adebayor) and are at an advanced stage," Hughes said.

However, he would not comment on the club's chances of signing Chelsea captain John Terry, who is seen as City's main target.

"It would be unfair for me to comment on each name since we are talking to many clubs for many players," Hughes said.

Hughes traveled to Abu Dhabi with the club's marquee signings - former Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez, Paraguay forward Roque Santa Cruz and England midfielder Gareth Barry - along with midfielder Stephen Ireland.

If City does buy Adebayor, the club's squad would include 10 quality strikers. Hughes, however, doesn't seem worried about having a surplus of talent fighting for playing time.

"The top players have become what they are because they have been professional in their approach," Hughes said. "They realize what it takes to play along with others and yet ensure the game we play is of quality."

Santa Cruz said the multitude of attacking options will just help make the forwards better.

"At any club there will be a lot of competition for a place in the team, but that is what makes things exciting," Santa Cruz said. "I know there are a lot of great strikers here now, but I know that if I do as well as I can, I have a great chance and the team will benefit as well."

Hughes emphasized that the club is following a clear-cut plan when it comes to purchases, rather than just buying up what's available.

"Choosing players is not exact science. The transfer window is an ongoing process and we have still some time," Hughes said. "It is wrong to believe that we are after every big player from the clubs everywhere. We are clear about the direction in which we are going and the kind of players we need to achieve that."

Hughes also announced that the club will play a friendly against the United Arab Emirates national team on Nov. 12.