Transfer Centre

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli heading for loan exit?

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 26 July 2016

Liverpool could be forced to ship striker Mario Balotelli out on loan for a second consecutive season due to his wage demands, according to reports.

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli could be shipped out on loan for the second consecutive season due to his high wage demands, according to reports.

The 25-year-old moved to Anfield from AC Milan two years ago but endured a difficult first season on Merseyside, scoring just one league goal in 16 appearances.

The Italy international returned to Milan on loan for the 2015-16 campaign, but once again he managed only one league goal and the Serie A outfit turned down the chance to make the move permanent.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has already told Balotelli that he is surplus to requirements at Anfield, but so far he has been unable to find a new club.

Besiktas are thought to be interested, but have decided that they cannot afford Balotelli's £4.6m salary, according to Turkish newspaper Fanatik.

The Turkish champions are more keen on a loan deal, which would require Liverpool to still pay a portion of Balotelli's wages.

The former Manchester City man, who has two years remaining on his contract at Anfield, has also been linked with Inter Milan, Sampdoria and a lucrative switch to the Chinese Super League.