Klopp says keeping the 25-year-old as his 5th choice striker is not an option.

“I have spoken to him about this. He’s not at the stage of his career where he should be battling with four or five other players for one or two positions,” explained Klopp.

“We want him to become the player he was before his injury – the talent is still there, there’s no doubt about it. 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.

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