Premier League club Liverpool have confirmed the signing of striker Mario Balotelli from Serie A club AC Milan after the 24-year old passed a medical this afternoon at Anfield.
The move marks a return to the English top flight for the Italian international, hours ahead of his new club’s trip to the Etihad face Manchester City; the club he helped win a league title in 2012.
Balotelli joins Liverpool on a three-year deal, with the option of a fourth year, for a fee of £16m but is subject to registration, which rules hom out of facing Manchester City later tonight.
Speaking after sealing his move, Balotelli said ”I’m happy to be here. Liverpool are one of the best teams here in England and the football is very good here. It’s a great team with young players, and that’s why I came here.”
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers on his part said ”There is no doubting Mario’s ability; he is a world-class talent and someone who, for such a young age, has vast experience of playing at the very highest level.”
Balotelli, who scored 30 goals in his 18-month spell at AC Milan, becomes Liverpool’s ninth signing of this transfer window.