Super Mario Bros. - Italians Mario Balotelli and TOWIE star Falcone are pals

Mate dates ... Mario Balotelli and TOWIE'S Falcone swapped invites

SOCCER star Mario Balotelli has teamed up with another super Mario — The Only Way Is Essex hunk Mario Falcone.

The Manchester City striker, 21, got chatting with the reality telly star while doing a personal appearance at a local nightclub.

Now a friendly "bromance" seems to be developing between the two Italians. Balotelli offered Falcone, 24, seats in his VIP box to watch this Saturday's game against Bolton.

And flashy Falcone has invited his new pal to Brentwood night club Sugar Hut, which features on the ITV2 show.

A source said: "Mario had no idea who the Essex Mario was.

"He just saw loads of pictures dotted around the club where he was doing a personal appearance and introduced himself.

"They both share a love of women and partying, and Essex Mario recommended he came down to check out the nightlife.

"They agreed to keep in touch and both Marios have kept their word."

Extrovert Balotelli sent Falcone a card for his birthday last week, but didn't travel down to party with TOWIE stars. The loved-up ace is smitten with girlfriend Raffaella Fico, 24 — and proved it after scoring the opening goal for his side against Blackburn on Saturday.

He lifted his City shirt to reveal the Italian words, "Raffaella ti amo", meaning "Raffaella I love you".

Falcone has been patching up his relationship with girlfriend Lucy Mecklenburgh, 21. They hit the rocks after she cheated on him with co-star Mark Wright and he sent sexy texts to other girls.