Former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez insists he has no intention of signing Mario Balotelli for Napoli.
The Italian striker has struggled to make an impact since his £16million arrival from AC Milan in the summer, and is yet to score in the Premier League for the Reds.
This has prompted speculation Balotelli could be sold as early as January, with a return to Italy an option being mentioned.
Napoli has been mentioned as a possible destination, but Benitez says he has no intention of raiding his former club for the striker.
“There is absolutely nothing in it. I have never considered Balotelli as an option,” Bentiez told Gazzetta dello Sport.
“The Liverpool fans are loyal. If he works hard on the field they will always support him.”
Balotelli meanwhile has returned to Liverpool having suffered an injury whilst training with Italy.
The 24-year-old is set to undergo a scan to determine the severity of the injury, with reports suggesting he has suffered damage to his groin and lower back.
Liverpool should have Daniel Sturridge fit for their next Premier League game at Crystal Palace on Sunday, but may have to wait to play the pair up front once again.
Balotelli and Sturridge have only managed 60 minutes as a partnership this season, during the Reds 0-3 win over Tottenham on August 31.
