Manchester City's Champions League flop could open the door to Mario Balotelli leaving next month.

The Daily Express says the Balotelli saga has developed at breakneck pace over the last few weeks and now AC Milan are the frontrunners to capture his signature.

Roberto Mancini has had his fair share of problems in the past with Balotelli and has questioned his attitude.

A potential deal seemed to hinge on City's involvement in Europe this season, and now a move for Balotelli could be realised as City failed to qualify for the Europa League after losing 1-0 in their final group game last night to Borussia Dortmund.