Mario Balotelli signs five-year deal with Manchester City

Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli on a five-year deal.

The Italian foward, 20, has long been linked with a move to Eastlands and the final deal is believed to be in the region of £24 million.

City manager Roberto Mancini said: “I think that Mario is one of the best players of his age in Europe, and I very happy to be working with him again.

“His style of play will suit the Premier League, and because he is still so young there is a big chance for him to improve. He is a strong and exciting player, and City fans will enjoy watching him.”

Balotelli has scored 28 goals for Inter since making his debut in December 2007, but a well-documented fall out with José Mourinho saw the striker’s San Siro future come under constant speculation.

His arrival looks certain to see Craig Bellamy leave the club after Mancini told the Welshman he is free to leave. Fulham have expressed their interest in the forward however it is believed that his preferred move will be to Tottenham.

City’s summer spending has now passed the £100 million mark and it is set to continue to rise with Mancini’s continued interest in Aston Villa midfielder James Milner.