Mario Balotelli is set to continue his career with a return to his native Italy after four months without a club.
- Balotelli on course to return to Serie A
- Contract agreed with struggling Genoa
- Striker without a club since June
WHAT HAPPENED?
Fabrizio Romano has reported that Balotelli's proposed free transfer to Genoa until the end of the season is almost finalised. The 34-year-old striker has seemingly accepted a salary reduction on what he was previously earning in Turkish football. He is thought to have spoken "several times" with Genoa head coach Alberto Gilardino, the former AC Milan striker and 2006 World Cup winner.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Reports on Friday initially suggested it was a possibility and more details have been reported by Gianluca Di Marzio, who said that medical tests will be carried out on Monday. Balotelli's pre-tax salary is quoted between €400,000 and €500,000, but "linked to bonuses and appearances". In other words, the more often and better the former Italy star performs, the more he will get paid. The agreed contract can also be cancelled as per certain conditions.
DID YOU KNOW?
Balotelli has been a free agent since June when he was released by Turkish club Adana Demirspor. He hasn't played in his native Italy since spending the 2020-21 season with Monza in Serie B, while his last Serie A spell was with Brescia during 2019-20. Between two stints at Adana Demirspor, Balotelli also had a year in Switzerland with Sion.
WHAT NEXT FOR BALOTELLI?
After a few months without playing, Balotelli will need to prove his fitness if he is to make an impact with Genoa. The club are struggling so far in 2024-25, sitting 18th and in Serie A's relegation zone after taking just six points from their opening eight games ahead of facing Lazio on Sunday. Goals have been a problem, averaging under one per game, which perhaps explains turning to Balotelli in a bid for extra firepower.
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