A return to Serie A could be on the cards for Mario Balotelli after Roma coach Eusebio Di Francesco confirmed his desire to coach the Nice striker, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
Italy international Balotelli came through the ranks at Inter as a teenager and looked destined to become one of the world's elite players.
Speaking to reporters about Balotelli, Di Francesco said: "I'd coach him.
"I spoke to him two years ago about bringing him to Sassuolo, but nothing came of it. Still, he's an interesting player with huge quality."
Di Francesco: "Maurizio Sarri is one of the best coaches in Italy. He has changed his playing system over time but has always stayed true to his footballing philosophy."March 2, 2018
Di Francesco is well aware of the task facing his players, lauding the impact his opposite number Maurizio Sarri has had on Napoli.
"Napoli are in great condition, both psychologically and physically, and led by one of the best coaches around," Di Francesco said.
"Maurizio Sarri is one of the best coaches in Italy. He has changed his playing system over time, but he has always stayed true to his footballing philosophy."
