Mario Balotelli, what on earth has gone wrong? After Mino Raiola admitted that the player was offered to Besiktas and spoke of his confidence of a deal being struck yesterday, Besiktas sporting director Erdal Torunogullari dismissed those claims today. After two seasons of disappointment and stagnation for the talented 25-year-old, the search for a club where he can rediscover his form is set to continue.
"We know Raiola well," Besiktas' sporting director said. "He’s even said Balotelli will go to Besiktas, but it’s not like that. We’re not interested, our priority is to hold on to Mario Gomez."
AC Milan were not interested in making a loan deal permanent this summer after three goals in 23 appearances in all competitions. A return of four goals in 28 appearances for Liverpool the season before has done little to make the Italian an attractive prospect who turns 26 in August. Maybe the move depends on whether Mario Gomez will remain in Turkey. The German striker is currently with his national team at the European Championships and turns 31 next month and could move on after a successful season in Istanbul.
Although Mario Balotelli has struggled over the last two seasons, he shouldn't be in this position where finding a decent transfer appears so difficult. It seems that both Liverpool and Mino Raiola have a grave task this summer. Which team from an increasingly limited group will come close to matching Balotelli's wages, paying a decent transfer fee, and offer an opportunity for meaningful minutes?