Liverpool's Mohamed Sissoko is nearing a move to Juventus after the midfielder revealed talks are well underway with the Italian giants.

Sissoko has failed to break into Rafa Benitez's first team plans at Anfield and is believed to be frustrated with his lack of playing time so far this season.

Juve boss Claudio Ranieri, who coached Sissoko at Valencia, has made no secret of his admiration for the Mali international and even went as far to label him as a "great player" earlier this week.

Champions Internazionale have also been linked with the 22-year-old but having transferred their attentions to Portugal midfielder Maniche, the path now seems clear for Juve to strike a deal for Sissoko.

"It isn't done yet, but my agent is in advanced discussions with the club," Sissoko told French radio station RMC.

"I hope they will reach an agreement, but I'm very happy a club like that wants me to come.

"I want a new challenge. The last few months at Liverpool haven't gone as I would have wished.

"But that's football, and now I want to move on to a new stage of my life and flourish on the pitch."

Sissoko has started just six games for Liverpool so far this season and is currently away on international duty with Mali at the African Cup of Nations.

Mike Hytner / Eurosport