• More talks with Manchester City scheduled for Monday
Mario Balotelli's turbulent spell at Manchester City seems more likely to fizzle out in a swift January exit than end in fireworks after the Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani confirmed his club's interest in the Italy striker who adorned Euro 2012 but has so often proved an encumbrance to his long-suffering manager Roberto Mancini.
The deal that would see the 22-year-old return to Serie A and the club of his choice hinges on the Premier League defending champions' asking price of €37m (£31m). Balotelli's off-field antics – ranging from training ground fisticuffs to pyrotechnic mishaps – have raised questions about his temperament at City. But Galliani said Milan were still eager to sign the player, provided the price is right. He told Gazzetta dello Sport: "At the end of Friday, Manchester City still said €37m. We will see on Monday. Under these conditions, he will remain at Manchester City."
The Rossoneri are also seeking to re-hire one of their former players, the Real Madrid midfielder Kaká whose spell in La Liga has been less than dazzling. Again, however, there is a cash caveat: Galliani says the 30-year-old's capture will require "great effort" from all parties – the Brazilian must take a pay cut.
"Everyone must make a great effort: Milan, Real Madrid and Kaká," he said. "Much depends on [the player's] economic sacrifice. I have up days and down days. At the moment it is down because I look at the taxation – that kills. In Italy, no player earns more than €5m net."
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