The lead up to Tuesday's Champions League clash between AC Milan and Liverpool was rocked by tragedy following news a Reds supporter was struck and killed by a car.

Reports from Italian outlets, including Gazzetta della Sport, claim the fan flew to Italy from Manchester and arrived in Italy just before midnight.

The supporter, 51, was later hit by an SUV at 1 a.m. while crossing the A4 highway near the Orio al Serio airport in Bergamo.

It's believed the fan, who has not yet been identified, was trying to cross the highway in order to get to the NH Hotel where he was booked to stay. Reports state the fan made it across three lanes before he was tragically hit by a car.

Fan was in Italy for Champions League clash

The fan, who hailed from Ireland, had a ticket for Tuesday's match between AC Mila and Liverpool. Corriere della Serra reports a father and son were with the victim, but opted not to cross the highway, and they are currently working with police following the accident.

Police are investigating whether the fan was under the influence, or if he was led down the risky venture by a travel app.

The tragedy took place less than 24 hours before the Champions League opener, with Milan heading into the match after a convincing victory over Venezia in Serie A action over the weekend.

As for Liverpool, they are hoping to bounce back following a surprise defeat to Nottingham Forest.