Manchester, Jan 30: Premier League champions Manchester City are considering a last ditch transfer move for Spain and Barcelona striker David Villa.

City have confirmed the departure of striker Mario Balotelli, who will undergo a medical at AC Milan after the two clubs agreed a £17million deal which could raise to £20million depending on add-ons.

Villa, 31, is likely to be the replacement for Balotelli and City bosses will try and sign the £15m-rated striker. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will also make a final move for Spain's all time leading goal-scorer.

Although Barcelona are not willing to sell Villa, ex-Barca officials Ferran Soriano and Txiki Begiristain, now City's chief executive and sporting director respectively, could help in the transfer move.

City, aloingwith Arsenal, are ready to meet Barca's valuation for their striker and also pay Villa's current wages. The 31-year old has been going through a frustrating spell this season.

Meanwhile, Balotelli's controversial spell at City finally ended after Milan agreed to pay £17m for the 22-year old Italian forward. Balotelli scored just one Premier League goal this season and a training ground bust-up with manager Roberto Mancini was the final piece of action.

Balotelli, who joined City for £22million back in August 2010, scored 30 goals in 75 appearaces winning the Premier League and the FA Cup.

OneIndia News