With proceedings progressing along rapidly, Liverpool’s whirlwind courting of AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli is expected to be completed by lunchtime tomorrow after reports emerged that the 24-year old is expected on Merseyside later today.
After initially denying that they were interested in signing the Italian mad man, the Anfield hierarchy hasn’t wasted any time in negotiating and putting the finishing touches on a £16mil deal. An initial loan inquiry with a view to a permanent transfer was turned down by the seven times Champions League winners with a straight cash deal preferable to the complex conditions that Liverpool were rumoured to be trying to negotiate into the agreement — something that Reds boss Brendan Rodgers has poo-pooed.
It’s believed that Balotelli — just as famous for his off-field antics as his on-field shenanigans — will be subject to a number of behavioral clauses and the Italian will have to commit to a strict set of guidelines to insure he remains in both tip top shape physically as well as out of trouble outside the watchful eye of Reds boss Brendan Rodgers.
That just might be another rumour though as the Northern Irishman refused to be be drawn not only on a move for the 24-year old, but any specific clauses for individual players. “I can categorically tell you that I can’t speak about it, or anything until the player’s signed” he said when quizzed on the 24-year old before ruling out any contract kung-fu. “No specific one [clause] for any one individual. “We’ve got a fantastic environment and great culture and over the last two years it’s been important for us to create and build here. So there will be nothing that will shake that up in any way.”
