Manchester United are being linked with a sensational deal involving AC Milan firebrand Mario Balotelli.Sportmediaset says Milan have decided to listen to offers for Balotelli and are willing to use him as bait to prise Robin van Persie away from United.

The Rossoneri are keen to tempt Van Persie to Italy and will offer Balotelli in part-exchange.

Former Manchester City striker Balotelli is again underfire from Italy's football establishment after lashing out at Sky Italia pundits following Friday night's defeat to AS Roma.

Before his retirement, it's understood Sir Alex Ferguson looked closely at signing Balotelli for United when he was still with Inter Milan.