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Balotelli agent plays down Lavezzi swap talk

Mario Balotelli shone in Manchester City's recent victory over Blackburn at Ewood Park © Getty Images

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Mario Balotelli's agent has dismissed talk of the Manchester City striker returning to Italy to join Napoli.

Balotelli, 21, had been linked to a swap deal involving the Argentinian, Ezequiel Lavezzi, after attracting headlines for the wrong reasons during his stay at City. The controversial forward has also found his first-team chances marginalised by the likes of Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero.

Mino Raiola, the player's agent, was responsible for the speculation having initially suggested the move, but he has now denied that a Napoli switch is currently on the table.

"It was just a comment in response to a question," Raiola said. "I talked about putting myself in Napoli's shoes, and for them it would be a bargain.

"We have not received any proposal for Mario. I always said that Balotelli needed time and the last three or four months are showing that.

"Settling into English football has been difficult, but now Mario understands certain mechanisms. He chose Manchester City and has never said he will leave."

Given that both Dzeko and Carlos Tevez have caused trouble recently, it will satisfy Roberto Mancini to know that Balotelli is likely to stay at the club. However, later, Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri admiitted his interest in Balotelli if the chance arose to sign him.

"I am happy to have Lavezzi and the other players in my team," Mazzarri said. "But as I've always said, I wouldn't say no to Balotelli. He is a very strong player. But right now we have other things to think about."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.