Roma and Fiorentina have both turned down the opportunity to sign Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli this summer, according to reports in the Liverpool Echo.
The Echo, who cite an unnamed source in Italy, suggest both clubs have other targets this summer. Roma are on the verge of signing Edin Dzeko from Manchester City, while La Viola appear to be targeting Mattia Destro.
Sampdoria and Bologna – also mentioned in the Echo story – have been linked with the 24-year-old as well but are unlikely to have the same financial backing as their two better known domestic rivals.
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This could all result in a rather unfortunate situation, with Balotelli left out in the cold at Liverpool and unable to find a new club. The former Inter Milan, Manchester City and AC Milan star has been told to train on his own after scoring just one goal league goal last season and things are looking unlikely to improve (via The Independent).
Brendan Rodgers has dropped the player well down his pecking order this summer, bringing in Christian Benteke and Danny Ings to reinforce our striking options, while Divock Origi has also returned from a loan spell with Lille.