Quique Sanchez Flores says Mario Balotelli has not been discussed at any point as a potential transfer target for Watford.

Reports in Italy on Monday stated the Hornets were planning to make a move for the Liverpool striker, who is currently training away from the Reds first-team.

We reported on Tuesday that there were no truth in the rumours and speaking as his pre-match press conference this morning Flores confirmed that is the case.

“Inside the club we haven’t spoken at any moment about Mario Balotelli,” the Golden Boys head coach said.

“It [Balotelli joining] is more a possibility in the media than at the club. I promise that I haven’t said a word about Balotelli with any member of the club.”

Watford have also been linked with a move for France international Yoann Gourcuff this week.

The midfielder is available on a free transfer after leaving Lyon and reports claimed the Hornets were in discussions with the 29-year-old.

Flores, however, says he isn’t aware of any move for the player who was once linked with moves to Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal.

“I don’t know if the offer came to Mr Pozzo but he didn’t transmit anything [to me] about Gourcuff.

“I think we already have a lot of players with his qualities but he is a very good player.”