National coach Cesare Prandelli believes a return to Italy “could help” controversial Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli.

Balotelli’s future has been the subject of renewed speculation after it emerged he is taking City to a Premier League tribunal this week.

It is understood that Balotelli is appealing against a club fine imposed for on-field indiscipline. The Italian has taken the matter to the Premier League, as is his right, after failing in the internal appeals process.

Neither City nor the Premier League have commented on the development but it has further fuelled rumours the 22-year-old could leave the Etihad Stadium during next month’s transfer window.

Prandelli, for whom Balotelli impressed at Euro 2012, told Rai Sport: “Everything depends on Mario. Coaches can try to stimulate and negotiate with you but everything must start from him. Returning to Italy could help him.”