MARIO BALOTELLI is poised to reject Barnsley for Brazil – by signing a deal with Vasco da Gama.
The former Manchester City and Liverpool maverick has been a free agent since leaving Brescia during the summer.
Mario Balotelli looks set to join Brazilian side Vasco de GamaCredit: EPA
The Italy international, 30, has been linked with a move to Championship strugglers Barnsley in recent days.
But Balotelli has now renewed ties with Rio-based Vasco, who sought to sign him earlier in the year.
Vasco sporting director Fabio Cordella said: “Mario Balotelli at Vasco da Gama is not a dream, but pure reality.
“We are working together with his agent, Mino Raiola, to try and bring one of world football’s best players to Brazil.
“Mario is increasingly convinced by our project, and the idea of moving to one of the world’s most fascinating leagues fills him with enthusiasm.”
Balotelli sent Vasco a video message last weekend, which incoming president Leven Siano posted on Instagram.
The striker says: “I wanted to compliment the new president of Vasco, Leven, and director Fabio Cordella. See you soon.”
Cordella added: “That video pleased me greatly, and it proves that Mario is already in our world.
Balotelli has recently been training to keep up his fitness with Italian Serie D club Sporting FranciacortaCredit: EPA
“He is an exceptional and honest lad, and here in Brazil he will be able to play a leading role once more.
“We tried to convince the outgoing president, Alexandre Campello, to bring Mario to Brazil for the end of November – but he didn’t want to do so.
“So everything has been put back to January.”
Balotelli has recently been training to keep up his fitness with Italian Serie D club Sporting Franciacorta.
SunSport previously excluisvely revealed how the Italian bad boy was offered to the Tykes when contact between Balotelli’s agent and Oakwell co-chairmen Chien Lee and Paul Conway was made.
Both sides were initially interested in the move before Balotelli’s enthusiasm to play in the Championship cooled.
Mario Balotelli held talks with Barnsley over free transfer as Championship strugglers fight drop
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
