Southampton's unimpressive mid-season signing Albert Gronbaek is closing in on an Italian move to replace Mario Balotelli.
Nowadays, making the lineup cut for Southampton doesn't count the same as earning sizeable minutes at a regular Premier League outfit, which is understandable. If it happens, the best but the Saints fanbase have long accepted not to doubt their former club hero's capabilities based on a forgettable campaign elsewhere.
We saw it happen with Rickie Lambert at Liverpool and somewhat with Jose Fonte's swift departure at West Ham, but despite that the St. Mary's faithful still sing praises of their brilliance. But have you imagined the tables turning down? Where Southampton benchwarmers step up to fill the shoes of once-labelled Premier League heroes.
Agreed, it's a weird possibility but nothing is unachievable in the transfer window and failed Saints loanee Albert Gronbaek is good enough evidence for that.
As confirmed by Italian club Genoa, Gronbaek has penned his loan contract there and is set to at least see out the end of the following season.
Gronbaek must take inspiration from Balotelli's Premier League stay
Well, Genoa have never shied away from attempting risky moves for wantaway Southampton stars but the 24-year-old may have a bigger task at hand than it appears to be. The reason being that Gronbaek will be assigned an attacking roster spot which may very well be Mario Balotelli's.
Now, Mario's goalscoring reputation might have slightly dried over the years but his Premier League exploits can't be downplayed. He even shared the dressing room with a bunch of Saints icons like Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert.
Plus, not to forget Balotelli's title-lifting moment with Manchester City, too. Due to these legacies, Gronbaek is sure to feel the weight of expectations on his shoulders.
Should he rise to the occasion, the rising Denmark star will have a great shot at bringing his dwindling career on track.