Mohamed Sissoko says he is close to securing a move to Juventus from Liverpool.

The powerful midfielder, who is away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations, is keen to leave Anfield during this month's transfer window as he has dropped down the pecking order in Rafa Benitez's plans.

Juventus boss Claudio Ranieri is a big fan of Sissoko having worked with him during his time at Valencia and he is keen to be reunited with him in Turin.

Sissoko is hopeful that a deal can be concluded in the next few days.

"I have very good contact with Juve and my agent is in Turin to have negotiations," Sissoko told Sky Sports News.

"Yes in the next two days I think the transfer is open.

"It is a very big club and I like this team. For the future they can do very good things, that is why I want to join Juventus."

Sissoko confimed he was only leaving Liverpool as he was frustrated with his lack of first-team action.

"I think it was not a very big problem (at Liverpool)," added Sissoko. "I am 23 years old, I am still young so I want to play a lot of games and that is why I leave Liverpool."

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