Liverpool: Agent confirms Reds target Giuseppe Rossi '99%' certain to leave Fiorentina in January

Liverpool have been encouraged in their pursuit of Giuseppe Rossi as his agent Federico Pastorello has revealed that the forward will almost be out of Fiorentina in the January transfer window. The American-born Italian international has struggled to get regular playing time as he started in only four league matches this season.

The former Manchester United forward is a target for the Merseyside club's manager Jurgen Klopp as he has set his sights on the 28-year-old to ease the injury crisis at Anfield, according to the Liverpool Echo. The German coach is already without the services of Danny Ings – who is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines – and Daniel Sturridge.

Rossi has struggled to keep himself fit in the last 18 months as he has spent most of the time on the treatment table. After joining Fiorentina in Janaury 2013, he is now looking for an exit from the club in the mid-season transfer window and Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing him.

"The club has realised it cannot keep hold of the lad because he wants to play. He will 99% leave Fiorentina in January," Pastorello told Radio Marte, as quoted by ESPN.

Liverpool could face competition in signing Rossi in January. Sampdoria president Massimo Ferrero has expressed his side's interest in signing the forward, only if Fiorentina covers the player's wages.

"Rossi is a player of great talent, a real champion," Ferrero explained. "If Fiorentina were prepared to pay his wages, I'd gladly bring him here. I'd have to talk it over with Montella first. If he gave the all-clear, then why not?"

Rossi is edging towards leaving his current employers next month. It should be seen whether Fiorentina will allow Rossi to join Sampdoria on a temporary basis or let Liverpool land him, if they place an offer for his services.