Andrea Dossena's agent hopes his client will be allowed to leave Liverpool so he can secure a World Cup place.

The Italian left-back has struggled to make much of an impact since moving to Anfield from Udinese in the summer of 2008.

He has been heavily linked with a return to his homeland, with Napoli making no secret of their interest, but a move failed to materialise in the summer.

Dossena's representative Federico Pastorello indicated last week that a January transfer could be set to go ahead.

And Roberto La Florio, another of Dossena's agents, has even suggested that a loan move would be one option just to give the defender some regular football.

La Florio has, though, played down reports suggesting Roma have also entered the chase for his signature.

"The will of Andrea returning to Italy is now clearly established," La Florio told Radio Kiss Kiss.

"I hope that Liverpool give Andrea the possibility to go to play, also on a loan, to regain a spot in the World Cup.

"Napoli? Officially there is nothing, because the market will open only in January.

"Last summer there was every reason for his move to Napoli, but then it didn't finish well.

"Interest of Roma? I've not had direct contacts with this club."