Newcastle United have reportedly expressed interest to complete a shock move for former Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli.
According to a report by Spanish publication AS, Newcastle United are among the clubs interested in securing the services of Mario Balotelli. The striker currently plies his trade for Adana Demirspor and is already attracting interest from clubs across Europe. Balotelli has a release clause in his contract, though the 31-year-old has no apparent interest in leaving the Turkish club.
A much-maligned figure in the world of football, Balotelli has endured a rapid fall from grace over the past five years. Since leaving Liverpool in 2016, the attacker has had spells at Brescia, Marseille, Monza and most recently, Adana Demirspor. He joined the Turkish outfit in the summer on a free transfer.
It has proven to be a real bargain for Demirspor as the striker has netted seven goals in 18 league appearances so far this season. The Italian striker is the club’s top scorer this term, with his exploits in front of goal helping Adana Demirspor compete for the European places ahead of traditional giants Fenerbahce and Besiktas.
Balotelli’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Newcastle United emerging as one of the clubs interested in his services. Fresh from the capture of Chris Wood, it appears the Magpies are prepared to further flex their financial muscle by adding another striker that can help replace the injured Callum Wilson and help the club stave off relegation.
Balotelli is always a gamble for any team in Europe, given his controversial past. However, with over 300 combined top-flight appearances during his time in Italy, England and France, the 31-year-old has undisputed experience at the highest level of football. He also has the record of winning the Premier League with Manchester City and the Champions League with Inter Milan.
However, the report states that the veteran forward has no intention of leaving Adana Demirspor. He is quite happy at the club and is unlikely to agree to a move elsewhere even if any club matches his release clause.
Newcastle United, therefore, may have to set sights on other options in their bid to land another top striker this January. They have been recently linked with a swoop for Marouane Fellaini, who has adopted the role of a goalscorer in the Chinese Super League.
The Magpies also remain in contention to sign Steven Bergwijn, who might leave Tottenham in the January transfer window. As for the pursuit of Balotelli, it is highly likely that the 31-year-old Italian striker will not be joining Newcastle United this month.
