Report: Liverpool set to sign AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli
Liverpool have cranked up talks with AC Milan to get a move back to England for Italian hitman Mario Balotelli, as reported by AC Milan’s official television channel this morning.
The Anfield club have been wanting to add another striker of first-team quality to their roster, and it looks like they have focused on Balotelli after their pursuit of Monaco striker Radamel Falcao turned cold.
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers raised questions about Super Mario’s character and attitude a couple of weeks ago, but it is no secret that he is an ideal replacement for the equally volatile Luis Suarez.
Balotelli’s agent has reportedly travelled to England to negotiate a deal.
Liverpool and AC Milan yet to agree on loan or permanent transfer
A possible snag that could turn up is about the terms of the transfer. Liverpool want him on loan with an option to buy but AC Milan want a straight transfer sale and refuse to lose their star striker without getting the monetary returns for him straightaway.
It is being reported that the transfer fee offered is €17.4 million, which might turn out to be too less than the asking price.
Milan are keen on the sale though, and the lure of Champions League football could be hard for Balotelli to turn down. So all parties might just reach a compromise that shall be beneficial to everyone.
It is also being thought that the talks regarding the sale taking place in London is so that Arsenal and Chelsea can attempt to get in on the bidding process as well.