Why Signing Mario Balotelli Would Be Absolutely Brilliant For Wolves
Mario Balotelli has emerged as a shock transfer target for EFL Championship leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers, according to reports.
The 27-year-old Italian international could reportedly leave current club OGC Nice at the end of the season and has been strongly linked with a return to England, where he has previously played for Liverpool and Manchester City. Reports claim that Wolves are genuinely interested in signing the controversial striker ahead of next season.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side sit comfortably at the top of the English second division and are primed for automatic promotion to the Premier League. Striker Leo Bonatini was in fine form at the start of the season but has faded in recent months, which has prompted the manager to look for options to strengthen his attack.
Wolves did sign former striker Benik Afobe on loan from AFC Bournemouth but it remains to be seen if they will make the move a permanent one at the end of the season. In my opinion, Nuno Santo could look to sign a striker in the summer, as it is imperative for the club to strengthen themselves ahead of a gruelling Premier League campaign.
This is where the links to Balotelli come into the picture. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Balotelli is by far the favourite child of controversy in the world of football. Throughout his career, the Italian has attracted negative attention for his antics both on and off the field, which have had a bad impact on his career. Yet, when it comes to talent and potential, there is no question that Balotelli is a class player on his day.
His last stint in England, with Liverpool, was a disaster. But having departed Anfield in the summer of 2016 to join French side Nice, Balotelli has managed to get things back on track. Since moving to France, the 27-year old has scored 39 goals in 59 appearances.
He was one of Nice’s most important players last season as they finished in the Champions League spots and has continued to impress in the ongoing campaign as well. So far in the 2017/18 term, Balotelli has scored a total of 22 goals in 31 appearances in all competitions.
The 33-time capped Italy international, who was overlooked by the Azzurri for the ongoing international friendlies, has pace in abundance, possesses brute strength and physicality and has shown that he can be a lethal finisher when provided with an opportunity. Moreover, despite his controversies, Balotelli has proven himself in England, having won a Premier League title and an FA Cup trophy during his time with Manchester City.
Without a doubt, signing him will represent a major risk for Wolves but knowing his talent and his experience in English conditions, and given that he will be available on a free transfer, it is worth the risk for the Championship leaders.