Mario Balotelli linked with a move to Turkey

Liverpool misfiring striker Mario Balotelli could be sold to Besiktas if his agent can strike a deal with the Turkish club.

The Italy international spent last season on loan at AC Milan and his representative Mino Raiola was told as early as February to find him a new home this summer.

Having looked at options in China it now seems Turkey is the preferred destination for a striker who scored just four goals in 28 appearances.

“I offered Mario to Besiktas and I’m waiting for their answer,” Raiola told the Turkish media outlet FotoMac.

“But I’m quite sure the transfer will happen as the president already assured me in the past that he would do everything he can to sign him.”

Turkey is the likely destination for center-back Martin Skrtel as Press Association Sport understands Fenerbahce have offered £5.5million for the 31-year-old.

The Slovakia international slipped down the pecking order under Jurgen Klopp and despite Mamadou Sakho’s 30-day suspension after an initial failed drugs test Kolo Toure – who has since been released after his contract expired – was preferred for the Europa League final defeat to Sevilla.

A deal is expected to be completed once Skrtel’s participation in Euro 2016, where he captains the national side, is over.