Espanyol have opened talks with the minders of Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli.

The Italy U21 international's brother and agent has spoken with Espanyol about a loan move to Spain this month, says Sport.

Inter coach Jose Mourinho is unhappy with Balotelli's attitude in training and won't consider him for the first team until the young forward shows better application. A loan move to a foreign club would suit Inter, fearing a backlash from Balotelli if was to join a Serie A rival.