Genoa are reportedly close to signing Mario Balotelli, the former Italian international striker who is currently a free agent. The club has reached an agreement with Balotelli for a modest salary between 250,000 and 300,000 euros until June 30, plus performance and survival bonuses.
La Gazzetta dello Sport report that this potential deal marks a significant drop from Balotelli’s peak earnings at clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool, where he commanded multi-million euro salaries. At 34, and with a history of controversies, Balotelli’s market value has diminished considerably.
The move is reportedly at the request of Genoa’s coach Alberto Gilardino. However, the club is holding off on finalizing the deal until after their upcoming match against Bologna. Gilardino’s position is not entirely secure, and another defeat could lead to his replacement, potentially by Argentine coach Jorge Sampaoli.
Balotelli’s career has been on a downward trajectory since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Once considered a great hope for Italian football, his performances and attitude during that tournament marked the beginning of his decline. Since then, he has played for a series of smaller clubs, including Nice, Olympique Marseille, Brescia, Monza, Adana Demirspor, and Sion.
Despite his fall from grace, Balotelli’s powerful shot remains a potent weapon. Genoa, struggling with offensive production this season, sees Balotelli as a low-risk, potentially high-reward signing. The club’s current striker duo has only managed one goal in seven matches, suggesting that even a past-his-prime Balotelli might improve their attacking options.
For Genoa, currently facing financial challenges, Balotelli’s affordable wages make him an attractive option. The club, now effectively managed by creditor A-Cap, is carefully weighing every financial decision.
