Soccer: Boateng 'close' to Barcelona

(ANSA) - Rome, January 21 - Kevin-Prince Boateng is "close" to joining Barcelona from Sassuolo, Sky Sport said Monday.
    It would be a return to La Liga for the 31-year-old former AC Milan Ghana midfielder, who played for Las Palmas in 1016-17. Boateng, also formerly with Tottenham and Portsmouth Kevin-Prince Boateng, has reportedly agreed terms with the reigning Spanish champions over an initial loan move.
    Boateng, who spent two seasons at White Hart Lane before moving to Fratton Park in 2009, signed for Sassuolo in the summer having left Eintracht Frankfurt and has starred for Roberto De Zerbi's side as they have cemented a midtable position in Serie A. Boateng has scored five league goals so far despite missing several weeks due to injury, with Barça understood to have been impressed with his performances in a false 9 role.
    He is expected to fly to Barcelona on Monday to complete his move, which is expected to include an option for Barcelona to purchase him for 8 million euros at the end of the season.