Manager Roberto Mancini is debating whether to include the 20-year-old Italian, possibly on the bench.
It would be Balotelli's first outing since December 28 when he suffered a knee injury after scoring a hat-trick against Aston Villa.
Mancini said: "I will decide if he can go on the bench. If he is not fit, maybe he will need another week.
"I have not been satisfied that has been off for four weeks but he's had a problem with his knee. Hopefully he will always be able to play the last three months of the season."
Balotelli's inclusion would strengthen City's attacking hand against their rivals.
New signing Edin Dzeko is eager to prove his worth and score his first goal in the Premier League.
Meanwhile Carlos Tevez will be looking to improve his 20-goal tally for the season against his former club after a hat-trick in the win over West Brom last week. The Brazilian Jo is also on board and ready to step in if needed.
