Newcastle United FC make move for Mario Balotelli

EXCLUSIVE

Newcastle have made a bid to sign Mario Balotelli on a season’s long loan.

Steve McClaren has yet to make a signing since being appointed as Newcastle boss – and the fans are getting frustrated.

So they have asked Liverpool if they are willing to loan the Italian as McClaren believes he can get the best out of him. They have yet to receive a reply.

It is the second time they have approached Liverpool having asked about another up for sale striker in Rickie Lambert.

Balotelli has been put up for sale by the Reds following the signings of Danny Ings, Roberto Firmino and the hopeful arrival of Christian Benteke and they would prefer a straight transfer.  But if no other club comes in for Balotelli then they will consider Newcastle’s loan offer.

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Balotelli offered lifeline at Newcastle

McClaren has failed to inspire any signings and the much anticipated move for Charlie Austin has yet to happen – as the club have not put a bid on the table.

Owner Mike Ashley promised at the end of last season there would be money to spend – but fans have yet to be convinced.

As Winner Sports first exclusively revealed, fans are planning to stay away in their thousands in protest – with 30 per cent of season tickets yet to be sold.

McClaren wants to strengthen his defence and is ready to move for Manchester United’s Jonny Evans – as we first reported. But he and Ashley know a marquee signing is needed first – and they are running out of time.

They believe bringing Balotelli to St James’ Park could be an inspirational move and get the fans excited – and back buying season tickets again.

A Newcastle source told us: “Something needs to be done – and fast. The season is closing in, the players are back training yet no signings have been made. This cannot go on.

“Balotelli may not be to be everyone’s liking but when he is on his day he is a top player and McClaren believes he can get the best out of him.”

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