Balotelli inspired crazy Douglas Costa transfer to Chievo

Ex-Italy star Mario Balotelli inspired Douglas Costa’s move to Chievo Verona: ‘Mario said Douglas wanted to talk to us,’ said a Chievo Verona director.

Italian striker Balotelli somehow inspired Douglas Costa’s transfer to Chievo Verona in Italy’s fourth division, Serie D.

Chievo director Andrea Fulco told Sky Sport Italia (via TMW) on Sunday: “The idea came when we took a flight with Mario to sign with Al Ittifaq, of whom I manage the sporting area. Mario said Douglas wanted to talk to us, so we had a first chat and then booked another appointment.”

Italian entrepreneur Pietro Laterza owns both Chievo and Al Ittifaq.

“There was a video call, which was also attended by the President, in the following days,” Fulco continued.

“I would have loved to bring Douglas to Dubai straight away, but we had already filled the spots [for foreign players] with Balotelli, so the only thing I could offer him was to join Chievo until June before going to Dubai.

“He needs to get organised, he has a family, and he’ll arrive in Italy soon. We can’t wait to see him on the pitch. It’s a coup that everyone enjoys because it gives important motivations.”