Fiorentina linked with a move for Mario Balotelli

Nice striker Mario Balotelli has emerged as a surprise target for Fiorentina in the winter transfer window.

The 28-year-old has been subject to interest from various European clubs.

The Italy international joined Nice from Liverpool on a free transfer in August 2016. His contract expires in the summer of 2019.

Balotelli made 76 appearances across all competitions for Nice, scoring 43 goals and supplying 4 assists in return.

As a member of Italy national football team, Balotelli won 36 caps and he scored 14 goals.

Stefano Pioli wants to sign a new striker and Mario Balotelli is one of the names at the top of his wishlist.

Pioli is a long term admirer of Balotelli and believes he can get the most out of the Italy international.

Mario Balotelli is a dynamic striker, who possesses good technical skills and ball control.

According to Calciomercato, “As the winter transfer window is approaching, Fiorentina are looking for a striker and as reported by Italian news site La Reppublica, it seems that one player who could be on their wishlist is ex-Milan and Inter Milan forward Mario Balotelli. Super Mario is currently playing in Ligue 1 with Nice but the Italian international seems as if he wants out, as his performances on the field took a downfall of late. The 28 year old still hasn’t scored a goal for Nice in the 2018-2019 season as he has been quite disappointing (after a very good season last year). A return in Italy seems like a logical and probable scenario for Balotelli as he is indeed wanted heavily by la Viola. More to come on the matter as many other Serie A teams could soon show interest in him.”

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If Fiorentina are genuinely interested, a deal would not be impossible to complete.

Stylistically, he would be a great fit in Fiorentina.

It will be interesting to see whether Fiorentina will make their move during the winter transfer window.