Genoa plan to release Balotelli

Genoa sporting director Marco Ottolini said on Monday the Italian Serie A club are looking to release former Italy striker Mario Balotelli.

Balotelli, 34, has played just 56 minutes since joining Patrick Vieira's side as a free agent in October on a contact until the end of the season.

"Balotelli has dropped down in my hierarchy, but he still wants to play," Ottolini told Sky Sport.

"I think by the end of the transfer window, we will find a good solution for everyone.

"Genoa aren't giving him the minutes he wants, we think the solution could be to find him a club where he can play," Ottolini added.

Much-travelled striker Balotelli, who has played for both Milan clubs, Manchester City and Liverpool, was signed to cover for injured Vitinha and Junior Messias.

Genoa are 12th in the Serie A table, six points above the relegation zone.

Serie A's transfer window closes on February 3.