Reports: Arsene Wenger to hold talks with Mario Balotelli about joining Arsenal

Mario Balotelli of Italy looks on after the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group D match between England and Italy at Arena Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil

Arsene Wenger is set to hold talks with AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli after weeks of heavy links with the Italy international, according to Goal.

Balotelli left Manchester City in January 2013 to sign for Italian giants AC Milan, who are the team that he supported as a child, but the Italian international has reportedly grown disgruntled with life in Italy. Balotelli has also been on the end of racial abuse during his time in Italy, a situation which recently put him in tears when substituted during a league game.

Milan recently sacked manager Clarence Inzaghi and replaced him with club legend Pippo Inzaghi, however, and Balotelli is set for pastures new after his agent admitted that the striker may leave this summer.

Arsenal have held an interest in the forward for some weeks now and after Balotelli’s representatives’ comments, it could pave the way for the Wenger to hold talks with the former Inter Milan striker.

Balotelli’s agent, Mino Raiola, said: “Arsenal are a fantastic club.

“Only eight or 10 clubs in the world can afford Mario Balotelli – like all premium players, and he is one of the greatest.

“[Will the move happen?] Anything is possible.”