Over the last few days, Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli has been linked with a move back to Italy, with AC Milan, Inter Milan and Napoli all demonstrating an interest in the volatile 22-year-old. The Guardian reports that Milan wants to buy the controversial striker for around $39 million—the same price City bought him from Inter for in 2010. However, Inter has pointed out that it has a right of first refusal clause in Balotelli's contract that would allow the Nerazzurri to buy him again at whatever price is agreed upon by both parties.

Meanwhile, City coach Roberto Mancini insists that the striker is not for sale. Balotelli's future has been the subject of much speculation due to lack of playing time and the many well-documented training ground clashes he’s had with Mancini and others. Despite this, the City manager continues to back his fellow Italian, saying he would give him “another 100 chances” to make a positive impact at Man City.

Following yet more reports on Friday linking Balotelli with a move away from the Etihad, Mancini replied:  "No, it is not true. I am very, very happy [with Mario]." When asked why Balotelli appeared for City’s U-21 team on Monday, scoring two goals in a friendly against Blackburn, Mancini said, “He went with the under-21s because he needed a game. After 40 days without a game, he needed one game. He trained well and I hope this year will be different."