This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Liverpool have opened talks with AC Milan over a permanent deal for striker Mario Balotelli.
Negotiations are at an early stage with the Serie A outfit demanding £20million for the controversial Italy international.
The interest in Balotelli, 24, represents a remarkable U-turn for the Reds after the club dismissed any interest in signing the former Manchester City frontman earlier this month.
Liverpool have been searching for a new striker since a deal to sign QPR's Loic Remy collapsed in July.
Balotelli made his name with Inter Milan but moved to Manchester City in 2010 following a fall-out with boss Jose Mourinho.
The striker's stay in the Premier League saw him make headlines both on and off the field, as he helped City win the 2012 Premier League title.
Balotelli was sold to AC Milan in 2013 and has scored 26 goals in 43 Serie A games for the Rossoneri.
At the end of Liverpool's pre-season tour of the USA in Miami manager Brendan Rodgers was asked about speculation linking Liverpool to a bid but dismissed the notion at the time.
Source: Liverpool Echo
This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
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