Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Mario Balotelli 'Keen' on MLS, Alvaro Morata Latest

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli is reportedly "keen" on a move to the MLS, with new club Orlando City "ready to start talks with his agent," according to Fichajes (h/t Jamie Sanderson of the Metro).

Balotelli has struggled to make a positive impression this season, scoring three goals across four competitions, per WhoScored.com. His number of yellow cards doubles this total and is an indicator of an individual who doesn't fit in with Brendan Rodgers' hard-working, fast-paced side.

Despite scoring a vital goal in the Reds' recent 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur, Balotelli's lack of movement halted Liverpool's attacking progress early in the season. He rarely makes central runs beyond the opposition's defence, which in turn halts the creative output of playmakers such as Adam Lallana and Philippe Coutinho.

Julian Finney/Getty Images

It's no coincidence that the side has thrust itself up the Premier League table since Rodgers dropped Balotelli and switched Liverpool to a 3-4-2-1.

Champions League qualification is a real possibility—Manchester United are just two points ahead in fourth and face an extremely tough run-in—but appearing in this competition for a second successive season is likely to make Rodgers hunt for additional attacking power.

Raheem Sterling cannot carry the team on his own, Daniel Sturridge's long-term injury means he cannot be counted on, and Balotelli's goalscoring is nearly non-existent. Neither Rickie Lambert nor Fabio Borini threatens to consistently start for the Reds, so it wouldn't be surprising to see the boss search for a world-class finisher in the summer.

A switch to MLS could revitalise Balotelli's career. Although a host of ageing stars have agreed to join in recent months, including Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and David Villa, Balotelli could use the American division as a springboard toward scoring goals again.

Jamie McDonald/Getty Images

Mino Raiola, Balotelli's agent, previously suggested his client struggles with the "do as we say or you stay out (of the team)" style on Merseyside, reported by Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t the Guardian). It's unlikely he would have to abide by this strictness in MLS.

Rodgers is reportedly eyeing a move for Juventus hitman Alvaro Morata, a player who could exit Turin if the Old Lady lodges a bid for Palermo's Paulo Dybala, per Anthony Chapman of the Daily Express. Arsenal are also said to be courting the 22-year-old, who could head back to Real Madrid via his buyback clause.

Like Balotelli, the Spaniard possesses the physical power to dominate defenders, but he is far more inclined to use his bulk wisely.

He would be an excellent replacement for the Italian, highlighted below:

Balotelli's longevity at Anfield has seemed doomed for months, highlighted by the side's return to form since his absence. Morata is the type of player who is always trying to impress. He is a youngster who wants to stamp his authority on the big stage, something Liverpool fans will have enjoyed witnessing from players like Sterling, Alberto Moreno and Emre Can this season.

Whether Balotelli is set for an MLS future or not, Rodgers would do well to get rid of him at the end of the campaign. Morata's capture is likely to prove difficult, but he represents the type of player Liverpool need if the club is to continue moving forward.