Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has confirmed his interest in signing Internazionale striker Mario Balotelli.

The 19-year-old forward was part of the Inter academy set-up during Mancini's reign as coach but has now blossomed into a first-team star.

Balotelli has regularly found himself at odds under Mancini's replacement, Jose Mourinho, but the City boss believes the combustible Italy Under-21 hot-shot would be a great signing for the Eastlands club.

He explained:"I'd gladly take him right away.

"Mario is potentially a world-class player, especially considering his age as he already changes a game.

"I don't know about his current behaviour, but I've never had reason to complain when working with him."

Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email