Former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is reportedly poised to begin talks over the manager's position at Sampdoria.

Following their promotion to Serie A, the Genoa-based club are expected to dispense with current boss Giuseppe Iachini and make a high-profile appointment.

Sampdoria sporting director Pasquale Sensibile has identified Benitez as his first choice and talks with the 52-year-old's representatives have already begun, according to Football Italia.

Benitez has been out of employment since being sacked by Inter Milan in December 2010.