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Mario Balotelli could be set for a quick return to Italy, with Sampdoria believed to be interested in signing the Liverpool striker.

According to the Corriere dello Sport, Balotelli is prepared to move back to Serie A after just one season at Anfield, with a number of Italian clubs thought to be interested.

Balotelli has disappointed since joining Liverpool for £16million from AC Milan last summer, scoring just one Premier League goal for the Reds.

The 24-year-old, who netted 30 times in 54 appearances for Milan prior to his move, is rumoured to earn in excess of £4million per year and could prove to be difficult for Sampdoria to take on.

The Italian club are thought to be interested in taking the troubled striker on loan, and are prepared to split his wage bill with Liverpool.

Balotelli hasn't scored a competitive goal since Liverpool's 1-0 Europa League victory over Besiktas in February.