Mario Balotelli's Future Is Always Doubtful, but Spurs Are Unlikely Suitors

Mario Balotelli's Future Is Always Doubtful, but Spurs Are Unlikely Suitors

Sunday, 2 March 2014

Blessed with one of the most "energetic" agents in the game, Mario Balotelli's future never seems to be too far from the headlines regardless of how settled he is at his current club.

Mino Raiola may be an expert at getting his clients the biggest moves around Europe and the best deals in contract negotiations (Zlatan Ibrahimovic is another client), and it seems the agent might be working his magic behind the scenes during what is a disappointing season for AC Milan.

Milan look unlikely to qualify for next season's Champions League, and that has only led to increased speculation surrounding Balotelli's future, with reports this week that both Arsenal and Tottenham are interested in a summer deal.

The Daily Express' Ben Jefferson reported:

“The Gunners have been linked with a £40m move for the former Manchester City striker, backed by new kit provider Puma, who also have a sponsorship agreement with Balotelli.

But according to reports in Italy Tottenham also have their sights set on the unpredictable frontman.

And with Lamela struggling to adapt after making a £30m move from Roma in the summer Spurs sense an opportunity to get one over on their fierce rivals.”

Signing Balotelli would certainly be a coup for Spurs, especially if they managed to offload Erik Lamela—who has endured a torrid first season in English football—for anything approaching what they paid for him.

 Believability Meter: Low

Balotelli seems to fit the profile of a top player who will move around a fair amount during his career, but even with AC Milan currently struggling, his allegiance to the club (as a boyhood fan) would seem likely to buy it some leeway in that regard.

Arsenal may well have the funds to sign the striker but it seems likely Arsene Wenger would want to steer clear of a player with Balotelli's reputation, even if he appears to have calmed down somewhat in recent times.

Spurs, meanwhile, will surely struggle to attract the Italy international without Champions League football to offer.