Liverpool outcast Mario Balotelli has issued a last-ditch plea to make his loan deal at AC Milan permanent.
Balotelli rejoined his former club for a season-long spell after his £16 million move to the Reds in 2014 turned sour, with paltry four goals in 28 appearances.
But the Italy international has failed to impress on returning to his homeland, recording just three goals in 18 outings for the Serie A side.
The striker, 25, remains intent on remaining at the San Siro and has pleaded with Milan to meet his release clause, believed to be £7 million, to avoid his increasingly inevitable return to Anfield this summer.
He said: “I was not happy at Liverpool and I do not want to go back there.
“I’ve been doing well in my last two games, there are another six for me to prove myself.”
“What I want is certainly to stay at Milan. I feel in good shape physically at last and am relaxed.
“Besides, Milan have the money!”
New Milan boss Cristian Brocchi recently warned Balotelli that the clock is ticking on his chance to redeem a future at the club.
He said: “I found Mario very eager and he promised me he’ll give his all in these last few games.
“It’s important for me that he shows he truly cares about the Milan jersey. As a coach I always focused on mentality, because even the most talented players have to be strong mentally.”