Milan bring Balotelli back to San Siro

AC Milan have completed the signing of former FC Internazionale Milano striker Mario Balotelli from Premier League title holders Manchester City FC.

Milan and City agreed a fee reportedly in the region of €23m on Tuesday and Balotelli successfully underwent a medical on Wednesday. The Italian international, who will wear the No45 shirt, has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract with the Rossoneri.

"As soon as I had the chance to join Milan I took it and came here," said the forward. "I didn't start the season well with Manchester City, but I'm sure I will do better with this club. I've wanted to come here for a long time and I hope I can make the fans happy to thank them for all the support they're showing."

A childhood Milan fan, Balotelli made his name with city rivals Inter, registering 20 goals in 59 Serie A appearances for the Nerazzurri. He left San Siro in summer 2010 to join former Inter coach Roberto Mancini in England and subsequently won the FA Cup and Premier League. The 22-year-old, who scored three goals at UEFA EURO 2012, found the net 20 times in 54 top-flight games for City.

Milan, who allowed Brazil striker Pato to depart for SC Corinthians Paulista earlier in the January transfer window, face FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League round of 16. The first leg takes place at San Siro on 20 February, with the Camp Nou return on 12 March.