Mario Balotelli has confirmed he is leaving AC Milan, with his agent believed to be on Merseyside to finalise a transfer to Liverpool for a fee of around £16m.

Balotelli confirmed to journalists in Italy on Thursday morning that he would be leaving the club he joined from Manchester City last year.

"This is my last day in Milan, my last day at Milanello," he said.

Liverpool have become increasingly desperate to sign a proven international striker following the sale of Luis Suarez earlier this summer, prompting manager Brendan Rodgers to turn to a player he said he would not sign earlier this month.

"I was asked the question about Balotelli last week and spoke about what a talent he is and excellent player he is," Rodgers said during Liverpool's tour of the US.

"But I can categorically tell you that he will not be coming to Liverpool."

Balotelli enjoyed a controversial first spell in the Premier League with City, his time there blighted by many notorious incidents.

However, he did win the league title and FA, to go with the three Serie A championships he had previously won with Internazionale.

He also scored the winning goal for Italy against England in both teams' opening games at this year's World Cup.

If the deal goes through in time Balotelli could potentially even make his debut for Liverpool at Manchester City on Monday.

Source: Daily Telegraph