Liverpool's Klopp urges Balotelli to relaunch career at new club

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has told embattled striker Mario Balotelli that he must find another place to revive his career.

Balotelli returned to Liverpool's Melwood training facility after an unsuccessful season-long loan spell at AC Milan.

Despite proving to be "world class" in the past few practice sessions, Balotelli apparently has no place in Klopp's plans. The Italy international wasn't selected for Liverpool's friendly against Tranmere Rovers last week, and he isn't scheduled to play on Wednesday against Fleetwood Town.

Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi, Danny Ings, Roberto Firmino, and Sadio Mane are all ahead of Balotelli in the pecking order.

"When we have done the crossing, heading and stuff, he's been world class. But this is not a situation where he should be battling with other players like this for one position, so it's clear we need a solution," said Klopp, according to the Liverpool Echo's James Pearce.

"There will be a club around who would be happy to have a new Mario Balotelli if you like. I have spoken clearly to the player about that."

A nagging groin injury kept Balotelli from making up for lost time in Serie A last season. However, he failed to make an impact in the games he did play, scoring just a single goal in 20 league appearances.

Sampdoria president Massimo Ferrero and newly promoted Crotone have both extended lifelines to Balotelli, but no official bid has yet been made. There were also reports of offers from Turkish outfits Fenerbahce and Besiktas.

For now, though, Klopp said he will do what he can to get the 25-year-old in shape.

Balotelli joined Liverpool in a £16-million deal from Milan in August 2014. With just 12 months remaining on his contract, he could move again on loan.