Liverpool Misfit Mario Balotelli Won't Be Joining Napoli in January

Napoli have rejected speculation suggesting they are prepared to offer Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli a route back to Italy, just three months on from his arrival on Merseyside.

Former Manchester City star Balotelli has come in for heavy criticism this season after a slow start to life at Anfield which has seen him score just two goals – a Capital One Cup strike against Swansea City and a late equaliser against Bulgarian minnows Ludogorets.

His struggles have fuelled reports claiming Napoli are now prepared to offer the much-maligned striker a move back to Serie A, claims that have now been dismissed by Napoli sporting director Ricardo Bigon.

"It is a rumour told in Spain, England and Italy but I don't think it is a possibility," Bigon told Mediaset.

"Nothing of what has been posted is true. Balotelli is a really great player but he has been just signed by Liverpool who believe a lot in him. Best wishes to him in his English future."

Balotelli's struggles on Merseyside have come despite being handed the job of leading Liverpool's attack in the absence of the injured Daniel Sturridge.

The Italian recently spoke of his desire to strike up a partnership with the England international when he returns to action, something Sturridge is keen to forge having revelled in playing alongside a strike partner last season in Luis Suarez.

"We get on well off the field and in the changing rooms. We're always laughing and joking," Strurridge told talkSPORT.

"Once I get back fit I am hoping we can strike up a partnership. Last season with Luis [Suarez] we had a great relationship up front and we scored a lot of foals. Hopefully this season it will be the same."