Ever since Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli arrived at Anfield at the end of August, the press has been in overdrive with stories and rumours about the controversial Italian’s future. With the transfer window back open for business, it’s not about to slow down as the latest has the 26-year old moving to Greek powerhouse Olympiakos on a 6-month loan.
After being, to a fault sometimes, a nailed on starter during the first half of the season, Balotelli has found him himself out of favour as of late with Reds boss Brendan Rodgers choosing to ignore all of his strikers, opting to play winger Raheem Sterling in a more central role. Even when the 20-year old is handed a break, as was the case during the narrow 2-1 win over AFC Wimbledon in the FA Cup, the Italian was still overlooked with Rickie Lambert given the nod instead.
Rodgers has hinted throughout the season that he not only wasn’t in favour of bringing in the former AC Milan and Manchester City man, but that he just doesn’t suit Liverpool’s style of play. So, what’s a boy to do? Well, apparently Olympiakos are willing to lend a helping hand by taking the misfiring striker, who has yet to find the back of the net in the Premier League, to the sunny shores of Greece and stumping up the €2.5mil in wages the Reds have lined up for him.
With Daniel Sturridge nearing a return to fitness and Lille striker Divock Origi looking likely to be recalled from his loan to the Ligue One side, an early exit for Balotelli doesn’t seem outside of the realm of possibilities. Whether or not it’ll be the Erythrolefkoi, who despite their status in Greek football aren’t exactly known for being flush with cash, taking in the 26-year old remains to be seen, but it wouldn’t be all too surprising if he’s on the move by the end of the month.
