Newcastle United have been linked with a sensational loan swoop for Liverpool flop Mario Balotelli, despite his horrendous first season at Anfield. Winnersports claim in an "exclusive" that the Magpies have enquired about Balotelli's availability on loan for the 2015-16 season, although they also say the club are yet to receive a response from the Reds. The report also claims that Newcastle made an earlier approach to Liverpool for Rickie Lambert, although they were rebuffed in their advances for the ex-Southampton man. Yet it is claimed that Balotelli could make the switch to St James' Park this summer that will surprise Newcastle supporters - particularly due to the fact he is a controversial figure. The 24-year-old Italian started his career at Lumezzane before moving to Inter Milan in 2007. He initially impressed Jose Mourinho at the San Siro, only for the now-Chelsea boss to describe Balotelli as "uncoachable". Despite this, Manchester City paid £20 million for the 33-cap Italy international in 2010 and he netted 30 times in 80 appearances for the Sky Blues. However, after falling out with Roberto Mancini and even brawling with his manager during a training ground incident, Balotelli returned to Italy for £18 million - this time with AC Milan - and he scored an impressive 30 goals in just 54 games. Then, last summer, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers attempted to plug the gap left by Luis Suarez's departure to Barcelona by signing Balotelli for £16 million. But the move proved to be a disaster as Balotelli scored just four goals in 26 games and often found himself omitted from matchday squads entirely. Balotelli has claimed three Serie A titles, the UEFA Champions League, the Premier League crown, an FA Cup and a Coppa Italia throughout his career - and has netted 92 times in 247 club matches - which is impressive in itself. And, despite having a reasonable international return of 13 goals in 33 matches for Italy, it would take a brave - and potentially stupid - decision from Steve McClaren to decide he can get the best out of a player who tends to divide opinion wherever he goes. This one appears at first glance to be just a sensationalised rumour - and let's hope that proves to be the case. For all the latest NUFC News, Views and Transfers make sure to follow whatculture.com/NUFC on Twitter and Facebook.
NUFC editor for WhatCulture.com/NUFC. History graduate (University of Edinburgh) and NCTJ-trained journalist. I love sports, hopelessly following Newcastle United and Newcastle Falcons. My pastimes include watching and attending sports matches religiously, reading spy books and sampling ales.
