Reports: Liverpool Wants Mario Balotelli To Be On Best Behavior, Or Pay Up

Mario Balotelli must agree to to be on his best behavior if he wants to play for Liverpool.

Balotelli’s agents and Liverpool negotiators are locked in talks over the Italian striker’s proposed move to Anfield, and the Reds want him to include conduct clauses in his contract, according to the Liverpool Echo, the Mirror and the Guardian.

“It has been spelt out to Raiola exactly what is expected of Balotelli with clauses in his contract outlining financial penalties if he steps out of line,” the Liverpool Echo reports. “If those terms are agreed to then Balotelli will travel to Merseyside over the next 48 hours to meet Rodgers face to face and undergo a medical.”

Balotelli, 24, has had a history of on- and off-field antics during his professional career, some of which have crossed from the realm of mischievously funny into that of being detrimental to his team and career.

Liverpool is hoping to sign Balotelli for £16 million ($26.5 million). It could prove to be a worthwhile investment if Balotelli stays out of trouble and reaches his vast potential in his second stint in the Premier League.