Rumour: Arsene Wenger is set to meet the agent of Mario Balotelli in Brazil

Italy and Milan striker Mario Balotelli

Arsene Wenger is reportedly set to meet with the agent of Mario Balotelli in Brazil according to the Daily Star, in the hope of thrashing out a deal that will bring the enigmatic Italian striker from AC Milan to Arsenal this summer.

Wenger has been working for French television at this summer’s World Cup and has used his position on the punditry team to watch over a number of targets, including the former Manchester City forward.

Milan have reportedly named their price for any suitors for Balotelli and the player himself is believed to be keen to leave Italian football after becoming a frequent target of racial abuse, while his stock has been raised after a fine performance against England in Italy’s Group D opening victory.

Arsenal are keen on adding a world class forward to their attacking options this season after finding themselves short up front over the course of last season, with Olivier Giroud often left to bear the weight of the lone forward role on his own, with only the raw Yaya Sanogo available in reserve.

Balotelli is thought to be high on his wishlist and move in the region of £25million is possible given the transfer resources Wenger has at his disposal and the French tactician has now held talks with Mino Raiola, in the hope of agreeing a deal worth £150,000 per week.