Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini admits he was serious about signing Mario Balotelli this summer.

Balotelli has been a revelation for Nice so far this season.

“Did I want Balotelli? Yes," admitted Zamparini to Rai Sport. “I am pleased for him and also with how he is behaving at Nice.

“I am sure that he is a golden boy.

“The cost for Palermo was too high, I can't allow that type of thing anymore. Maybe Nice can. I am pro-Balotelli!"