Former Man City Mario Balotelli courted by Serie A clubs

Just a week ago Mario Balotelli seemed destined to join Spanish second-tier side Intercity, as reports claimed the player was offered to the club by an intermediate, however, the former Man City man is now tipped for a return to Italy. According to 'La Repubblica', Balotelli is currently in the midst of negotiating with Serie A sides Genoa and Torino.

The Turin club are reportedly desperate for a striker to replace injured Duvan Zapata, who has torn his ACL and will be out for the rest of the season. Balotelli, who is currently without a club, would be an ideal short term option for Torino as they would be able to sign him immediately from the free agents market. The 'Granata' also have strikers Success, Choupo-Moting, and Ben Yedder in their list of potential replacement, though the latter has recently been discarded following his alleged sexual abuse case. 

On the other hand, Genoa seem to be aware of Balotelli's rise in demand, as 'La Repubblica' also claim that head coach Alberto Gilardino personally made a phone call to the 34-year-old to convince him to join. The 'Grifone' are reportedly negotiating with the former Milan star as the believe that he would be able to help the squad following a disappointing start to the Serie A season. 

Balotelli is currently without a club and has repeatedly expressed his desire to get back to action after his three-year stint in Turkey. According to 'La Stampa', he is currently traning in Brescia and is said to be ready for to make his return to the Italian league.

 

October 9, 2024