Mario Balotelli: "I will stay at Manchester City"

Mario Balotelli has reiterated his desire to remain a Manchester City player.

The Italian striker has been linked with a return to his homeland this summer following a string of incidents on and off the field last season.

Despite admitting that he is in "love" with Italy, the 21-year-old has insisted that intends to stay at the Etihad Stadium.

"I love Italy but I will stay at City," the former Inter striker told Corriere dello Sport.

"The Premier League is the highest level for a player, and is a league I enjoy."

Balotelli scored 13 Premier League goals during City's title winning campaign.