Liverpool transfer news and rumours: Mario Balotelli targeted by Sampdoria; Napoli join Reds in Piotr Zielinski hunt

This morning's biggest Liverpool transfer stories as Jurgen Klopp continues his recruitment plans

Mario Balotelli (Getty)

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli would be a “perfect fit” for Sampdoria, according to the club’s president Massimo Ferrero.

The 25-year-old endured a torrid loan spell with AC Milan and has returned to Merseyside for pre-season training with Jurgen Klopp’s men, who failed to qualify for the Champions League.

The former Manchester City striker remains highly unlikely to be a part of the German’s plans next season. “Balotelli is Balotelli's own worst enemy," Ferrero told Il Corriere dello Sport.

“He could re-launch [his career] at a passionate club like ours but I think he's still got mixed feelings. I've tried to tell him to come to Samp because he's a great talent.”

Liverpool are also facing a fight to secure a deal to sign Piotr Zielinski from Udinese, the 22-year-old’s current club, after Napoli gave up on their pursuit of Axel Witsel.

The Reds are faced with a race against time if they are to beat Napoli to Zielinski’s signature with the Serie A side looking to conclude their summer business swiftly, according to talkSPORT.

Reports suggest Napoli have already had an offer accepted for the Poland international as Klopp watches on from afar. Zielinski is a combative midfielder who, at such a tender age, has already won 16 caps for his country, scoring three goals.

Meanwhile, Joe Allen could be about to remain at Anfield after Europa League winners Sevilla cancelled their interest in signing the Welsh international.

Allen, 26, is currently with the Wales squad as they prepare for tonight’s European Championship semi-final against Portugal. According to Estadio Deportivo, Liverpool’s asking price of £14m has put off a number of his suitors.

Swansea City, Allen’s former club, failed with an £8m bid earlier in the summer as Klopp looks to secure maximum profit on the central midfielder despite handing him just eight starts in the Premier League last season.