‘Balotelli Staying At Liverpool’

Misfiring Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli will remain at the club next season, his agent Mino Raiola claimed on Wednesday.

Balotelli, 24, struggled in his debut campaign at Anfield following his £16 million move from AC Milan last year, scoring just one league goal and four in all competitions.

It has prompted speculation that Liverpool, who did not qualify for the Champions League, will look to move the Italy international on in the close-season transfer window.

But Raiola told Sky Sports: "We have talks with Liverpool and he will stay. I spoke many times with the club and they were happy with his input as a professional."

Asked if Balotelli and Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers had successfully adapted to working with each other, Raiola replied: "I think Mario did. I cannot talk for Brendan Rodgers.

"Obviously we're pretty confident it'll happen next year."