Rafael Benitez to hold Sampdoria talks

Former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is reportedly poised to begin talks over the manager's position at Sampdoria.

Following their promotion to Serie A, the Genoa-based club are expected to dispense with current boss Giuseppe Iachini and make a high-profile appointment.

Sampdoria sporting director Pasquale Sensibile has identified Benitez as his first choice and talks with the 52-year-old's representatives have already begun, according to Football Italia.

Benitez has been out of employment since being sacked by Inter Milan in December 2010.