Arsenal transfer news: Mario Balotelli '99.9 per cent' certain to stay with AC Milan

Former Manchester City ace looks likely to remain in Italy with Milan

Mario Balotelli and Fanny Neguesha pose with Arsenal badges (GETTY IMAGES)

AC Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani has moved to dispel rumours that Mario Balotelli could be destined for a return to the Premier League with Arsenal by claiming that the Italian striker is '99.9 per cent' likely to stay.

The 23-year-old has featured regularly in the gossip columns this summer with the Emirates seeming like the most likely destination.

The San Siro hierarchy, however, have denied there is any truth behind the rumours by claiming that the Italy international will be staying with the Rossoneri.

"Mario is training like the other players," Galliani told the media. "He never asked to be sold. He will stay at Milan.

"100 per cent doesn't exist on the transfer market, but 99.9 per cent does."

Despite his club's insistence, the former Manchester City forward has been stoking the fire by posting images with Arsenal branding in the backdrop.

A highly controversial figure, Balotelli's last stay in English football was defined by his turbulent relationship with former City manager Roberto Mancini.

Roberto Mancini and Mario Balotelli are separated in an incident during his last Premier League spell (EAMONN & JAMES CLARKE)

While the Milan chief was keen to discredit the Balotelli reports, he appeared more than willing to admit an interest in Gunners forward Joel Campbell - suggesting the Costa Rica international could be set for Serie A.

Torino winger Alessio Cerci, also linked with a switch to the Premier League, is another target for the Italian giants.

He added: "Alessio Cerci and Campbell? They have the characteristics our coach likes, but so do many other players."