Even though rumors said Balotelli was close to signing with Arsenal, it seems that things were a bit different. According to Metro, the Italian was never going to become part of Wenger’s side who refused two major chances to bring in the 24 year old. Even with some major price cuts included in Mino Raiola’s second attempt to move his player from Milano to North London, there was no room for Balotelli’s problematic personality. His agent was not the only one eager to help with the transfer by reducing salary demands to almost half of what he asked the first time. Arsenal’s current sponsor which also has a contract with Balotelli, offered to pay some of the money needed to bring the Italian striker to Emirates.

Wenger proved once again he is in absolute control over what happens with Arsenal. He refused both offers and had the team’s interest in mind. Despite being quite adequate for what the Gunners need in terms of fire power, Balotelli has never proven himself willing to settle and give it his all for a particular club. He failed to acclimatise even when he joined his favorite team, AC Milan.

Liverpool have signed Balotelli for one quarter of what he was worth at the beginning of the transfer period. Arsenal are still looking for the perfect player to join Giroud up front. Someone with a similar profile to that of Balotelli would be perfect. With Podolski having one step out the door, Wenger will have to move fast in order to sign a second striker and many feel Man United’s Welbeck could be the man.