Gary Neville mocks Liverpool flop Mario Balotelli, says they should keep him

In a rather ironic twist, fierce rivals Manchester United could also ensure that Liverpool are forced to keep hold of Balotelli for another year.

The Italian worldwide has proven to be a massive disappointment since his move from AC Milan to Liverpool last August, but could soon be able to end his unhappy spell in the north west.

According to the Daily Mirror, the Biancocelesti will approach the Merseyside club with a €2 million loan offer for Balotelli, but only if the club win their qualification play off for the groups stages of the Champions League.

The report indicates that Lazio are “prepared to commit” to a £1.5 million loan deal ahead of a potential permanent £12.5 million transfer.

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli is reportedly on his way out of Anfield as manager Brendan Rogers told the 24-year-old Italy global that he does not want him to be with the first team, as per the Independent.

Rodgers described the purchase of the former Manchester City forward as a “calculated gamble” last summer, per the Liverpool Echo’s James Pearce.

Balotelli bagged just one goal in 16 Premier League appearances last term, and the arrivals of Danny Ings, Roberto Firmino and Christian Benteke will see the forward fall further down the Liverpool pecking order.

It means Liverpool would recuperate most of its transfer fee for Balotelli, and there’s no doubt Reds officials will be hoping to see Lazio qualify for the Champions League proper.