Former Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo has insisted that compatriot Mario Balotelli has all the attributes to become one of the best strikers in the world.

The 25-year-old has endured a tumultuous career so far, failing to fulfil his potential and being involved in a number of off-the-field incidents.

Balotelli is currently contracted to Liverpool, but spent last season on loan at AC Milan and is expected to leave Anfield this summer having been deemed surplus to requirements by manager Jurgen Klopp.

"He frustrates me, but I do have so much affection for Mario. He is infectious to be around. When I used to see him walk into training for Italy, he would have this big smile on his face - and I would just burst out laughing - and start wondering what is he thinking, what is he up to?" Pirlo is quoted as saying by The Mirror.

"Mario should not just be a character the media write about for good stories. We shouldn't forget what a special player he is. I have played with some of the best strikers, and I can tell you Mario has all the attributes to be one of the best strikers in the world. By now I thought that is where he would be, that is where he should be. He has no more time to waste.

"He has played for so many big clubs, it's easy to forget he's only 25. He still has time to make it at the very top. He needs to pick his next club carefully. I have read things about him and China. With all respect to their league, Mario should not be going there yet. If he has two or three good seasons at his next club, he will still only be 28 and could join one of the top clubs in Europe. I don't have any advice for him anymore, he knows the qualities that he has. From this point, it's up to Mario."

Balotelli has been linked with the likes of Besiktas and Sampdoria.