Manchester City & Manchester United Face Bidding War For €35m Rated Inter Striker Mario Balotelli

Manchester City face a derby with Manchester United for Inter striker Mario Balotelli, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Yesterday, Inter chief Massimo Moratti admitted to interest from City but claimed he was not aware of a concrete offer despite Inter sources claiming City had made an initial €25m bid.

But they have to upscale their offer and, to complicate matters, United are ready to broaden their appeal to Balotelli as they squeeze themselves into negotiations. Both clubs will have to find at least €35million to convince the Italians.

Ernesto Paolillo, the club's CEO, already warned "Balotelli would cost more than anyone else," leading to strong belief the club will not accept offers below €30m.


United are now said to have offered €35m in direct response to City's first bid as they try to turn Inter heads. Despite the Nerazzurri sending mixed messages, Balotelli seems to be set to depart San Siro.

He is unlikely to join the club on their US tour according to Sky Sport Italia, leading to increased views that he is waiting for Inter to accept further bids from one of the two Premier League giants.


(source: goal.com)