Mario Balotelli’s agent has insisted that speculation linking his client with a move to Besiktas was fabricated, as he looks ahead to talking to Liverpool.
Last week, quotes were attributed to Mino Raiola by Turkish media outlets suggesting that a deal with Besiktas was close and that the club were keen on signing Balotelli.
However, it appears as though that is not the case, and that the Italian forward will return to his parent club later this summer after failing to have the desired impact at AC Milan during his loan spell last season.
“Last year was quiet for him,” he told Marca. “We haven’t spoken of his behaviour, he has not had any bad episodes professionally.
“His problem has been injuries that have prevented him from being at his best. Turkey? A lie. I was called by a journalist posing as the president of Besiktas, they invented everything. He must return to Liverpool and talk to the coach, Jurgen Klopp.”
Raiola certainly makes a valid point in his assessment of Balotelli last season, as the 25-year-old appeared to be switched on and determined to do well.
From his body language to his general effort, there was undoubtedly a difference in his play, but a troublesome injury ensured he lost his sharpness and form, and in turn it resulted in a disappointing campaign where he was unable to reach the standards expected of him in terms of his quality and decisiveness on the pitch.
Despite the fact that Raiola has suggested that talks will take place with Klopp, it’s unlikely that the Liverpool boss will have a place in the squad for Balotelli moving forward.
In turn, although a move to Besiktas doesn’t look likely at this stage with Raiola dismissing false comments, Balotelli will in all probability still be on the move this summer and he’ll have to find a club willing to take him on and give him another opportunity.