West Ham United have been linked with a summer swoop for Mario Balotelli on a free transfer move this summer, according to reports from Turkish outlet Fotomac via Sport Witness.
Super Lig giants Fenerbahce are also said to be in the race for the centre-forward, but face a strong competition from the Premier League club.
Manuel Pellegrini is looking to put together a team that will break into the Premier League top six next season and the signing of Balotteli represent a good piece of business.
The 2012 Premier League winner with Manchester City looks set to leave French giants Marseille for free, with his current deal with the club expiring at the end of next month – June.
Balotelli, who has eight goals and one assist from Marseille across 24 league appearances this season, have attracted top host teams across Europe, with the Hammers joining Fenerbahce and the likes of Everton, Crystal Palace in the race for his signature.
West Ham needs upgrade on the likes of Marko Arnautovic, Andy Carroll, Lucas Perez and Javier Hernandez with the former the frontman with 11 goals for the club this season.
At 28-year-old, Balotelli also have one or two more season to perform at the top-flight and in him West Ham could look to break into the top-six next season but it remains to be see how the Hammers would battle it out with Fenerbahce for his signature this season.
