According to a recent report by the Telegraph, West Ham United have been offered the opportunity to secure the signature of Italian striker Mario Balotelli, who is currently a free agent, during this summer transfer period. However, the same source has also mentioned that the Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini has shown no indication of his interest in recruiting the former Manchester City and Liverpool forward before the start of the new campaign.
Balotelli’s Remarkable Goal-Scoring Record In The French Top-Flight
Balotelli enjoyed a fruitful spell in French football while playing for clubs such as OGC Nice and Olympique Marseille. Since joining Nice from Liverpool in the summer of 2016, the Italian frontman has enjoyed a rich vein of form in the Ligue 1.
The 28-year-old scored 43 goals and created four assists in 76 appearances during his time at the Allianz Riviera. However, Nice decided to release him back in January when he joined Marseille. Balotelli registered eight goals in 15 matches for the French outfit last season, but it was not enough to earn him a permanent contract at Orange Vélodrome.
The Italian goal-getter is currently available for free, so he could serve as a low-risk acquisition for the Hammers if Pellegrini decides to put to his faith in the free agent market.
What Will The Italian Talent Bring To The London Stadium?
Balotelli is very quick and is a good dribbler with the ball in the opposition half. He is also a dominating presence in the final third and can score goals consistently at the top level. However, his ego has often got the better of him, so there is a concern regarding his erratic behaviour both on and off the pitch.
The acquisition of a quality striker like Balotelli would undoubtedly ease Pellegrini’s goal-scoring headaches at the East London club. The Hammers are in dire need a prolific goal-getter in their squad following Marko Arnautovic’s departure from the London Stadium. Hence, Pellegrini should consider exploring the option of recruiting Balotelli as he has already proven his worth at the highest level.
Will Balotelli Be The Right Choice For West Ham?
At the same time, the Italian could hamper the morale of the Hammers squad due to his unpredictable behaviour. Thus, Pellegrini needs to figure out whether the pros outweigh the cons before he makes up his mind on whether to orchestrate a move for the 36-time Italy international this summer.
