---
title: "Liverpool to use flop forward as bait in audacious attempt to land Serie A assist king"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/liverpool-to-use-flop-forward-as-bait-in-audacious-attempt-to-land-serie-a-assist-king/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Jonny Gorrie"
section: "Liverpool Football Club"
published: "2016-05-21T20:21:18Z"
modified: "2016-05-21T20:21:18Z"
---

# Liverpool to use flop forward as bait in audacious attempt to land Serie A assist king

![ilicic.jpg](https://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ilicic.jpg)

**While the manner of the defeat to Sevilla in the Europa League final no doubt led to some frustrations within sections of the Liverpool support, it seems as if Jurgen Klopp can do little wrong.**

For the most part, the charismatic German tactician is getting it right at Anfield and there is huge excitement going forward.

The former Borussia Dortmund coach has endeared himself further following reports are considering a stunning swap with Fiorentina that could spell the end to Mario Balotelli’s miserable spell at the club, according to *Tuttosport* (via [Forza Italia](https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/05/liverpool-consider-sending-balotelli-to-fiorentina-in-exchange-deal/?).)

Currently on loan with AC Milan, the controversial forward endured a dreadful campaign with the Reds last season and is widely expected to leave.

Lucrative switches to the mega wealthy Chinese Super League have been [mooted](https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/656901/Liverpool-Transfer-Mario-Balotelli-China-transfer-gossip-news), though the report claims the 26-year old could be used as bait.

*La Viola* playmaker Josip Ilic is [thought](https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/05/liverpool-consider-sending-balotelli-to-fiorentina-in-exchange-deal/?) to be of interest to manager Jurgen Klopp as he looks to carve a squad in his own image ahead of his first summer in charge.

The 28-year old is versatile across the frontline and able to score from an attacking midfield berth, bagging 13 goals in Serie A last season.

Fiorentina are [thought](https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/05/liverpool-consider-sending-balotelli-to-fiorentina-in-exchange-deal/?) to be keen on the former Manchester City forward should he drop his [€6m](https://forzaitalianfootball.com/2016/05/liverpool-consider-sending-balotelli-to-fiorentina-in-exchange-deal/?) per year wages to something more affordable.

**Should Klopp give Balotelli time to prove himself?**