Having struggled to settle in London, Lamela included in deal to return to Italy.
Tottenham have reportedly proposed a possible exchange deal involving Erik Lamela and AC Milan star Mario Balotelli, according to Sport Mediaset.
The 21-year-old has struggled to settle in London since securing his move to the Premier League from Roma last summer, with injuries and lack of form keeping him on the sidelines.
Speculation has continuously linked him with a return to Serie A, but the latest report originating from Tuttosport, is that Tottenham will approach Milan with the idea of swapping the Argentine winger for Balotelli.
Tim Sherwood’s side are in need of a world-class striker to compliment the stars that they signed last summer after the sale of Gareth Bale to Real Madrid, while Balotelli’s on-going problems in Italy have previously linked him with a move back to England.
It is understood that the Rossoneri have made no sign of a willingness to negotiate such a deal, as the Italian striker is seen as a vital part of their future despite his disciplinary issues and off the field distractions.
However, agent Mino Raiola will undoubtedly be alerted by the news and is expected to explore the possibility further in the coming days.
Nevertheless, it will be difficult to secure a deal given that Balotelli has consistently stated his desire to remain at Milan, while a move for Lamela would make little sense for the Italian giants given the number of options that coach Clarence Seedorf has in that role.
Keisuke Honda, Kaka, Adel Taarabt, Stephen El Shaarawy and Riccardo Saponara are all currently set to compete for three spots in the starting line-up in support of the main striker, and with Giampaolo Pazzini the only other recognised senior centre-forward in the squad, it is almost impossible to see Milan part ways with Balotelli.
However, Mediaset believe that Franco Baldini will step up his interest in the coming weeks to ascertain as to whether or not Milan would be interested in such a deal.
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