Ferrero: I would welcome Liverpool striker with open arms, but only with a discount

Sampdoria president Massimo Ferrero has confirmed that he would love to sign Mario Balotelli, but the eccentric film producer has admitted that Liverpool will need to give the Blucerchiati a discount on the striker in order to make the transfer feasible.

Balotelli’s future on Merseyside is looking increasingly insecure following a disappointing season after his move from AC Milan last year while Liverpool’s recent €45 million capture of Christian Benteke from Aston Villa has pushed him further down the pecking order at Anfield.

Indeed, the 24-year-old has been left out of Brendan Rodgers squad which in currently touring the far east on pre-season duties.

“The name of the new striker? The name starts with C …” joked Ferrero to the media whilst attending Expo 2015 in Milan.

“Balotelli? I heard the media said that he was in Genoa yesterday. He costs €10 million, but if Liverpool will give me a discount I would welcome him with open arms.”

Sampdoria’s need to sign a new forward has become more acute in recent days following Italian international Stefan Okaka’s transfer to Anderlecht for a reported fee of €3 million.