Ghana's inspirational captain Stephen Appiah has met Inter Milan youngster Mario Barwuah Balotelli to discuss his international future.
The 17-year-old, who was born to Ghanaian parents in Italy, has turned down several overtures to play for the West African country.
The hugely talented Balotelli reiterated his lasting desire to wear the blue and white jersey of the Italian national team after former Ghana coach invited him for January's African Cup of Nations.
But Ghanasoccernet investigations have revealed that the highly respected Ghana captain Appiah has met the youngster in a bid to persuade him to play for the Black Stars.
The duo were recently spotted eating in top class restaurant in the Italian city of Brescia, beaming with smiles after talks over the youngster's international future.
When confronted about the news of Balotelli, who was raised by an Italian foster family, Appiah confirmed meeting the highly-rated striker but refused to divulge the details.
"I won't deny that I met Mario in Italy and we had a very interesting discussion but our meeting is not meant for the public. It is all private," Appiah told Ghanasoccernet.
"I plead that at the moment I can't discuss the details of our conversation but I am very happy about his progress in football.
The Ghana captain is aware that the youngster has pledged his future to Italy but Appiah has called for understanding for the youngster.
"Ghanaians should be patient about Mario. He doesn't know anything yet about Ghana so we the players at the top must show him how our country is.
"Many people have spoken to him and that confuses him. I am his senior brother and as a Ghanaian I have the responsibility of painting the correct picture for him.
"He is a very nice guy, talented and funny. I am in constant touch with and can't say nothing more about his international future."
Despite the meeting the youngster, Appiah insists Balotelli must decide his international based on his feelings.
"I can't decide his future for him but I can advise him on what to do and that is clear," Appiah said in the interview with Ghanasoccernet.
"If he decides to play for Ghana I will be over the moon because Ghana is my heart.
"Any good addition to the Ghana squad is what we are looking for to continue to make our country the force in Africa and across the globe.
"We all have a duty and responsibility in making that happen as Ghanaians and I am determined to move our country forward."
Balotelli was born in Sicily, but is not eligible for an Italian passport until he is 18 years of age, a status that will be attained next week on August 12.
He is rated as the best U-20 striker in the Italian Serie A as he has already joined the first team of Italian champions Inter Milan the watchful eyes of coach Jose Mourinho.
The youngster can still play for Ghana even if he plays for the Italian youth national team as he can switch national before the age of 21.
Several Europe born youngsters have opted to play for Ghana and their careers have flourished while playing for the West African country.
