Italy striker Mario Balotelli has reportedly been offered a return to Serie A with Parma, but the promoted side are struggling to meet his wage demands.

Balotelli, 27, is available on a free transfer after two successful campaigns with Nice managed to rejuvenate his stagnant career. He had been expected to remain in Ligue 1 with Marseille, but they failed to thrash out an agreement with agent Mino Raiola.

Gazzetta dello Sport stated on Friday that the Gialloblu – back in the top flight for the first time since 2014/15 and free of the chronic financial troubles that caused their relegation – have opened talks to land the ex-Internazionale and AC Milan hit man.

These negotiations are proving fraught, however, as Parma have offered €2.5 million per year and Raiola has demanded €5m per year to sign.

Balotelli struck 43 times in 66 Nice matches.