Transfer news: Mario Balotelli could be in line for Chelsea move claims agent

The striker only joined AC Milan in January but his agent Mino Raiola has fuelled speculation of a return to England

Mario Balotelli could be on his way to Chelsea according to the player's agent.

The comments from Mino Raiola, who also represents Zlatan Ibrahimovic, seem slightly odd given the AC Milan striker's difficult past with Jose Mourinho.

However the Chelsea boss is said to still be keen to add another striker to his squad after failing in the pursuit of his summer target Wayne Rooney.

The current form of Fernando Torres, who appears to be rejuvenated under Mourinho, is also another factor which makes the move seem unlikely, but Raiola is insistent his client could join the Blues.

"Balotelli and Mourinho could be reunited because they know each other and they didn’t leave each other with hate," said Raiola.

"There was a not very nice incident between them, but they parted company on good terms. They have remained in contact and there is mutual respect.

"I know Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani will not agree, but Mario is a great striker. That is for certain and he could perhaps be that at Chelsea."

In the meantime AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has moved to quash any rumours that Balotelli will be leaving in the next transfer window.

"He will not leave in January," Allegri said on the AC Milan website. "Absolutely not.

"I think Mario should be left in peace. It's not difficult to manage him.

"There's far too much discussion of the man's private life. I think that Balotelli should be judged for what he does on the pitch like all other players."

The Italian international has been in Milan for less than a year following his £19m move from Manchester City in January.