1 Mario Balotelli

Inter Milan have rejected an offer for Mateo Kovacic from Liverpool – which included Mario Balotelli as a makeweight.

The Reds are hot on the heels of the Croatian after it was reported he could be available this summer.

Inter want around £22m for the 21-year-old but Liverpool value the midfielder at closer to £15m.

In attempt to make up the difference, according to Corriere dello Sport, Liverpool offered Balotelli as part of any deal.

The striker failed to hit the heights expected of him on Merseyside after a £16m move last summer and Brendan Rodgers is ready to ship him out.

But, Inter have rejected the chance to re-sign the 24-year-old and instead told Liverpool they want a straight cash deal for Kovacic.