Report: Liverpool determined to sell Mario Balotelli

Liverpool have reportedly decided to sell Mario Balotelli in this summer's transfer window.

The Italian striker has been repeatedly linked with a move away from the club after struggling to make an impact in his debut season at Anfield, but his agent insisted on Wednesday that he would not be leaving in the near future.

However, The Guardian claims that Liverpool are determined to get Balotelli off the wage bill as they prepare to make major changes to their attacking options.

Balotelli earns a minimum of £80k a week, but he has attracted interest from Sampdoria since joining Liverpool from AC Milan for £16m last summer.

Injuries disrupted Daniel Sturridge's campaign, and providing support for the England striker is likely to be a priority, with Rickie Lambert and Fabio Borini both expected to leave.