Balotelli's disappointing time at AC Milan could mean Liverpool return

Mario Balotelli's second go-round at AC Milan could be his last, as the Italian team's chief executive expressed his disappointment at the forward's performance since he arrived from Liverpool on loan.

Adriano Galliani admitted Balotelli, who's only managed three goals in 17 matches, has failed to meet expectations and said he has to make significant progress before AC Milan will consider making his deal permanent.

"We really like Mario, but he has to convince us to earn a permanent deal," Galliani said, as translated by Sky Sports.

"Mario is feeling well. He is desperate to stay here at Milan. But like I have said before, he does not merit a permanent deal at the moment."

His second stint with AC Milan has been bitterly disappointing compared to the 30 goals in 54 appearances Balotelli, 25, registered during the the 1 1/2 years he played there before moving to Liverpool.

Failing a permanent deal, Balotelli will return to Liverpool, where he also struggled to find his form before he was loaned to Milan after just one season at Anfield.