Mario Balotelli set to sign new Manchester City contract

Manchester City are said to be prepared to offer Mario Balotelli a £180,000-a-week contract in the new year.

City boss Roberto Mancini has given the striker his full support after a strong showing for Italy at this summer's European Championships.

The 22-year-old attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Serie A but City will offer the forward a new contract to protect his long-term value, according to the Daily Star.

Balotelli missed Italy's friendly with England on Wednesday and is unlikely to start City's Premier League opener against Southampton on Sunday, August 19.