Manchester City coach Roberto Mancini confirmed on Tuesday that Mario Balotelli is set to return to Italy to join AC Milan, who had announced his transfer earlier in the day.
Milan said the controversial striker would arrive in Italy on Wednesday and undergo a medical examination before signing a 4½-year contract.
Reports in the Italian media said Milan would pay 20 million euros (US$27 million) to acquire the services of a player who previously played for their city rivals, Inter Milan.
Speaking after City’s 0-0 draw at Queens Park Rangers in the Premier League on Tuesday, Mancini told Sky Sports: “Both clubs are talking about him. I think that maybe tomorrow they can close it. Mario will go in for a medical.”
Balotelli has had a chequered time at City, making the headlines as much for his exploits off the pitch as for what he has achieved on it, but Mancini said he would be missed.
“We are very sorry [to lose him],” said the Italian.