Mario Balotelli set for Italy return?

Italian forward Mario Balotelli has opened up on his long-term plans for the future, suggesting he will be headed back to his home country. Balotelli has been a revelation since moving to Nice two seasons ago.

Balotelli is believed to be a target for numerous Italian sides, with both Sampdoria and Palermo in the race to sign the former Liverpool striker.

The Italy forward himself has also told calciomercato.com that he expects a return to his homeland, but it is unlikely former club Milan will be his next destination: "My future? There are many teams in Italy that follow me, I can say that Milan is not among these clubs. I would like to return to an Italian club. Milan? It is not possible. I almost certain that I will not stay [at Nice beyond this season]. I am still not sure, but it is most likely that it will be my last season here."

Nice are reportedly considering offers in the region of 15 million for the striker.