Balotelli joined Genoa in Serie A as a free agent in October after parting ways with Adana Demirspor following the expiration of his contract in the summer. However, his time at the club has not unfolded as he may have hoped, with the former Italy international managing just 56 minutes of playing time under coach Patrick Viera. With Andrea Pinamonti, Jeff Ekhator, and Vitinha being preferred over him for starting roles, the former Manchester City forward could be considering a move away from Genoa in the upcoming January transfer window. 

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Mexican club Cruz Azul has expressed interest in acquiring the Italian striker. Brazilian outlet RTI Esporte further reports that talks between Balotelli and the Cruz Azul management are progressing well, with only his salary remaining to be settled. The Mexican club is eager to sign the former City striker, given their current struggles in attack in Liga MX. With the winter transfer window already open in Mexico, Cruz Azul is expected to make an official offer soon, aiming to integrate Balotelli into their squad ahead of the Liga MX Clausura season.