Sampdoria waiting for discount on Mario Balotelli

Sampdoria have repeatedly hinted at their interest in Balotelli, and Ferrero reiterated it at the presentation of the 2015-16 Serie A fixture list, saying: “Balotelli costs €10m, but with a discount we await him with open arms.”

This statement suggests Liverpool would be prepared to release the player for just £7.1m.

That would be half of what the Reds paid Milan for him only a year ago.