Kenny Dalglish admits Alberto Aquilani exit is likely

Kenny Dalglish has admitted that midfielder Alberto Aquilani is likely to return to Italy next summer.

The 27-year-old spent last year on loan at Juventus and is turning out for AC Milan this season in a similar deal.

The Italian failed to cement a first-team place at Anfield following his £20m move from Roma in 2009.

After a successful spell with Juve it was expected that Aquilani would compete for a place at Liverpool, but Kenny Dalglish brought in a host of midfielders this summer such as Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson.

The Scottish manager has now admitted that a return to the Reds is unlikely.

"For Alberto, it was an opportunity for him to go back home. If he does well, then [AC Milan] will purchase him," Dalglish said.

Liverpool take on rivals Manchester United a week on Saturday in their next Premier League fixture.