Dries Mertens Finds Himself On Liverpool’s Shortlist

New Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is looking to strengthen the club’s attacking options for the upcoming season and is believed to have earmarked young Belgian winger Dries Mertens for this purpose.

The Belgian international moved from Utrecht to PSV Eindhoven last summer and stunned fans by adjusting quickly to life at the Philips Stadion. The 25-year-old enjoyed his best campaign to date last season and went on to notch a tally of 21 goals in 33 appearances for the former Eredivisie champions.

According to Belgian magazine Footgoal, Mertens’ tremendous performances have alerted big European clubs including Liverpool, and the Merseyside giants are ready to splash €15M on the winger, a sum which – if tabled – is likely to persuade PSV’s management to part ways with their young talent.

Mertens was one of the Peasants’ best performers last season; the winger started his career with Gent in 2004 before moving to AGOVV in 2007.

After turning in impressive displays for the Eerste Divisie outfit, he was snapped up by Utrecht in 2009, where he excelled by racking up 16 goals in 65 appearances, before moving to PSV in 2011.

The 25-year-old belongs to a rare breed of wingers who chip in regular goals for their teams. Reds fans may hope that interest in the wide-man will soon materialize into a concrete bid as dearth of quality wingers in Liverpool’s squad has been considered to be one of the primary reasons for their poor performances in recent seasons.

Mertens is under contract with PSV until 2016, putting the Dutch club very much in the driving seat over his future.

Hoops In For Bellamy

QPR vice-chairman Amit Bhatia has confirmed that Craig Bellamy is on the club's shopping list as they plot their next transfer move.

Bellamy is currently preparing to represent Team GB at the Olympic Games, but speculation has continued to mount over where he will be plying his trade for the upcoming season.

Brendan Rodgers has expressed a desire to keep the Welshman at Anfield, while Cardiff are thought to be interested in their former player.

Bhatia has confirmed the Hoops are also keen, telling Sky Sports News: "Mark (Hughes) likes to have a long list of players so we'll see what happens.

"We've been a fan of Craig Bellamy for the last few years.

"His is definitely a name that has been mentioned but he's not the only name that we have discussed for that position so we have a few options.

"Mark has loads of names on his list and many of the players we want are wanted by other clubs.

He added: "Whoever Mark settles on, we will do our best to support him."

Liverpool Set To Offer Skrtel An Improved Contract

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers hopes Martin Skrtel will sign a new deal and is not aware of any bids for the defender.

Skrtel gave an interview in Slovakia, suggesting there had been interest in the 27 year-old, but just like the supposed interest in Luis Suarez from Juventus, Rodgers hasn’t received any formal offers for the player.

Liverpool hopes to conclude negotiations on a new deal with the Slovakian and are bemused by suggestions there has been any breakdown in those conversations. The club expects talks to continue in the coming weeks.

Skrtel featured in the opening game of Rodgers’ reign in Canada on Saturday, a low-key 1-1 draw with Toronto, and the Liverpool manager said he would fight to keep his centre-back.

He told the Telegraph: I’ve heard nothing from any other club. Martin has been fantastic and seems happy and contented. He fits into my plans and ideas. I will fight as hard as I can to keep the players that I want here and he is one of them.

“Unfortunately there is always that rumour, speculation and gossip and until the window closes that will continue.”

The Merseyside club is desperate to keep hold of their key players as Rodgers prepares for his first season in charge. He's already held positive talks with Suarez over the phone about his commitment to Anfield and hopes that like Skrtel, he will also sign an improved contract shortly.

Rodgers said: “I’m confident he is really looking forward to playing for us this season and is really looking forward to this way of football.

“I have spoken to him and had nothing but positivity from him. He is obviously at the Olympics and I wish him well, but I will wish him better when he comes back.”

The new Liverpool boss doesn’t have much time to make any changes to his squad, as their season will start in just over a week against opposition from either Belarus or Macedonia in a Europa League qualifier.

Robinson Glad To Be Back

Jack Robinson is hoping to put his injury problems behind him and impress new manager Brendan Rodgers.

The Liverpool left-back became the club's youngest ever player when he came on against Hull City as a 16-year-old in May 2010.

Rafa Benitez was the manager in charge then but Robinson has since seen Roy Hodgson and Kenny Dalglish come and go before the appointment of Rodgers earlier this summer.

The England Under 19 international has spent much of the intervening period on the sidelines and was forced to sit out most of last season after featuring in the League Cup in the autumn.

Robinson is now targeting more involvement in the first-team as he looks to challenge Jose Enrique for a place in the side.

"It's great to be back playing after what happened last season," he told the Liverpool Echo.

"I started off quite well and I was getting on the bench for the first team but then the injury came and that kept me out for four months.

"I had to have an operation on my foot because I had a piece of bone floating around. They took that out and put me in a cast.

"I got back training and was doing okay but then I hurt my groin which really set me back.

"It was difficult and I hardly got to play at all last season. But now I'm back part of it under the new manager and it's just unbelievable to be part of this squad.

"Growing up as a kid this is what I wanted and now I'm in it I don't want to leave it."

Reds Overspent, Admits Werner

Liverpool chairman Tom Werner has indicated that the big spending that marked Kenny Dalglish's second spell as Anfield manager is a thing of the past.

Dalglish spent £35 million on Andy Carroll, lavished around £20 million each on Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson and bought Charlie Adam from Blackpool for £8 million.

Despite the heavy outlay, the Merseysiders - although winning the Carling Cup - finished in a disappointing eighth place in the Premier League and Dalglish departed soon after the end of the season to be replaced by Brendan Rodgers.

"This is a very financially strong organization, LFC," Werner said. "I believe - not just in the previous season, but in the past - we have overspent for players, and the results were not what we have expected.

"We do have the resources to be competitive, but at the same time, we are going to operate in a way that will be a self-sustaining model.

"I think you will see that you don't necessarily have to go out and spend £50 million on one player to see success."

Werner predicted that Rodgers would make a positive impression on the Anfield faithful, adding: "I don't think anyone could have been happy with our performance on the pitch last year - no disrespect to Kenny. I think he is an iconic figure for Liverpool and he will always be appreciated for the stability that he brought to the club.

"Brendan brings a very thoughtful, modern, attacking philosophy - I think our fans will be very delighted with the attacking philosophy that he brings to Liverpool - and hopefully we will see improvement."

Carroll, in particular, has become symbolic of Liverpool's big spending, with reports suggesting the club is likely to take a hit of at least £15 million on the deal in any permanent sale only 18 months after signing him.

The England international, 23, has been linked with a return to Newcastle - who offered to take him on loan with a view to a permanent deal - while AC Milan expressed an interest in a loan after Rodgers hinted that the striker may not be part of his long-term plans.

Werner has insisted that the manager will have the final say on Carroll and suggested a decision will be made on the forward in the near future, insisting the club would not attempt to influence Rodgers in any way.

"Brendan is clearly the leader here," he told Sky Sports News. "The only thing I can say is we will do what is best for the club. At the moment Andy is on the squad, he is an important member of the England team and he has a lot of talent. We will see what happens."

It would appear that Werner does not expect the situation to drag on deep into the transfer window, saying: "Hopefully the question will be answered shortly, but at the moment Andy is on the team and we look forward to him contributing."

Rodgers Rules Out Suarez And Skrtel Sale

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has played down speculation linking a number of the club's leading stars with moves away from Anfield this summer.

Reds defender Martin Skrtel and last season's top goalscorer Luis Suarez have each attracted attention from a number of top European clubs, and Liverpool's inability to offer either player Champions League football has led to rumours they could both push for a transfer.

However, Rodgers insists that all his first-team players remain fully committed to the club, and have not been distracted by media reports.

Skrtel has two years to run on his existing contract, and after talks over a new deal stalled, his potential availability alerted the likes of Manchester City, Napoli, and big-spending Russian outfit Anzhi Machakala.

"I've heard nothing from any other club," said Rodgers. "Martin has been fantastic. He seems happy and contented. He has fit into my plans and ideas. I will fight as hard as I can to keep the players that I want here and Martin is one of them."

Meanwhile, Suarez, who is currently on Olympic duty with Uruguay and will not return to Merseyside until later next month, has been attracting interest from Serie A giants Juventus, but Rodgers insists the 25-year-old is not for sale.

"I'm confident Luis is really looking forward to playing for us this season and is really looking forward to this way of football," enthused the former Swansea boss. "I have spoken to him and had nothing but positivity from him.

"He is obviously at the Olympics and I wish him well, but I will wish him better when he comes back.

"Unfortunately there is always that rumour, speculation and gossip and until the window closes that will continue. I'm just looking forward to getting every player back. It is important to get the whole group here and get some new signings here."

Dortmund Winger Grosskreutz Dreams Of Playing For Liverpool

Kevin Grosskreutz has revealed that it would be a "dream" to play for Liverpool in the future, but reiterated his love for current club Borussia Dortmund.

The 24-year-old was signed to BVB's youth team in 2002, but moved to Rot Weiss Ahlen a year later before being repatriated in 2009.

Under coach Jurgen Klopp, Grosskreutz has won two Bundesliga titles and the DFB-Pokal, and while he stated the feeling he has for his current employers, he also left the door open for a move to Anfield.

"I love Borussia, but I cannot rule anything out," Grosskreutz told Sports Image. "It would be a dream to play for Liverpool at some point. England is a dream for any footballer."

Grosskreutz had stated in November that he would prefer a move to Arsenal, but he appears to have had a change of heart.

Dortmund face Werder Bremen in the first Bundesliga match of the season on August 24.

Liverpool To Offer Adam To Fulham In Dempsey Deal

Liverpool are ready to up their bid for Fulham's Clint Dempsey to a player plus cash deal, with the inclusion of Charlie Adam, according to the Daily Mail.

The United States midfielder seems to be the top target for new Reds boss Brendan Rodgers and he is willing to let Adam leave in order to get his man.

However, the addition of the Scottish midfielder in that deal does depend on Liverpool’s discussions with Swansea player Joe Allen who is reportedly the subject of a £15m bid from Rodgers.

Adam and Allen play a similar role and it is thought the new Anfield boss would be willing to let the 26-year-old leave to help build his own Liverpool squad.

Signed from Blackpool last summer, for a fee in the region of £7m, Adam managed 26 league games and 2 goals before a knee injury ruled him out of the last two months of last season.

His future could now lie in West London with Martin Jol’s Fulham.

Reds Consider Sterling Loan

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is considering sending winger Raheem Sterling out on loan this season.

The 17-year-old has impressed in his three substitute appearances for the club, having made his debut against Wigan Athletic in March.

But Rodgers is keen to give the former Queens Park Rangers youngster some experience away from Anfield, rather than rushing him into the Liverpool team.

"He is a talent, but he's not ready for the first team yet," Rodgers told Liverpool's official website.

"One of the things I've done over my career is to manage the expectation of young players and the reality is he is still very young.

"There are very few players in the world who get into a Premier League team at 17, never mind a top club.

"He has certainly shown qualities and we'll decide over the next few weeks whether he stays, and he's involved now, or if he goes for a loan period."

Toulouse Ace Admits Premier League Lure As Liverpool Circle

France midfielder Moussa Sissoko has put Liverpool on red alert after revealing that he is keen to quench his 'thirst' for Premier League football.

Sissoko, 22, currently plays for Ligue 1 side Toulouse, where he has established himself as a key player since making his first-team debut in 2007.

The 22-year-old, whose athletic style has seen him draw comparisons with Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira, is out of contract next summer and he believes he would be well-suited to life in the Premier League.

"Everybody knows I’m thirsty to learn about other leagues, especially the Premier League, which I think suits my profile," he told French newspaper La Depeche du Midi.

"However, it does not mean that I have failed if I stay at Toulouse. I’m not unhappy here, I have a good position in a good club, where everything is set-up to succeed."

Laudrup Braced For Allen Exit

Swansea manager Michael Laudrup has a contingency plan should Joe Allen leave for Liverpool, and says the midfielder will be allowed to decide his own future.

Laudrup made Rayo Vallecano midfielder Michu his third signing of the summer on Friday following the captures of Chico Flores and Jonathan de Guzman.

But it is the future of Allen that is attracting the most attention with speculation mounting that former boss Brendan Rodgers is keen to take the talented playmaker to Anfield.

The 22-year-old was one of the stars of Swansea's maiden Barclays Premier League campaign and secured a place in the Team GB squad for the Olympics.

He signed a new four-year contract at the Liberty Stadium last summer, but Rodgers is a keen admirer of the Wales international and reports have linked the Reds with a £15million deal.

Laudrup reiterated that Swansea have yet to receive any contact from Liverpool, but has a plan in place should Allen move on.

"You always have to be one step ahead so we have to be prepared for everything," he said.

"It's not only in this case, but with each position in the team.

"When the transfer window closes on August 31 you can breathe a sigh of relief, but you only have three or four months when people do not talk about transfers because then you look ahead to January 1. It will be the same then.

"You have to think about the present window as well as the future, which will be the winter window.

"But we obviously want to be able to have the best possible team available."

Although Laudrup would like Allen to remain in south Wales, he insists that should an offer come in then the player would be allowed to decide whether he would welcome a move.

He said: "I haven't spoken to Joe since I have taken over. I haven't spoken to any of the three Olympics players and we have not had any contact from Liverpool.

"I am in contact with the chairman every day. We agree that if there will be an approach then we will have to talk to the player.

"We cannot just answer 100% yes or no without having talked to the player.

"That's a problem because he has to concentrate on the Olympics but we will have to deal with that if and when it comes to that.

"You can force players to stay but how does that help? It doesn't work like that. It's better to find a solution that suits both parties."

Reds Held In Tour Opener

Lucas Leiva made his comeback from injury as Liverpool played out a 1-1 draw with Toronto FC in Brendan Rodgers' first game in charge.

The appropriately named Rogers Centre was the venue for the start of the new Liverpool manager's reign, and there were plenty of positives to take from an intriguing encounter in Canada.

Even without several senior members of his squad, Rodgers decided to select a different XI for each half and there were further substitutions as well, including a welcome return for Lucas following eight months out with anterior cruciate ligament damage.

There was little goalmouth action in the first half but the Reds looked eager to impress and Dani Pacheco caught the eye with a lively performance, with Alberto Aquilani also granted an opportunity to shine in midfield.

The game came to life after the interval and it was Toronto who broke the deadlock just before the hour mark when Peter Gulacsi could only parry a shot from Andrew Wiedeman and Quincy Amarikwa slotted home.

The lead lasted little more than ten minutes as Adam Morgan provided the simplest of finishes into an empty net after a brilliant run and shot from the impressive Raheem Sterling.

There were also some good touches from Suso as Liverpool pushed for a winner, but they ultimately had to settle for a draw on the first leg of their North American tour.

Rodgers Hails Brilliant Lucas

Brendan Rodgers has given Lucas Leiva a ringing endorsement and declared he will be integral to his new-look Liverpool team.

The 25-year-old has been out for seven months after he sustained a cruciate ligament injury last November, which interrupted his best Liverpool campaign to date.

Lucas' recovery is ahead of schedule and he has joined his team-mates on their pre-season tour of America.

It is something which has triggered praise from the new Liverpool chief, who views the Brazil international as integral to the success of the team.

"He's the ultimate professional," Rodgers told the club's official website.

"He is going to be a brilliant player for me in my career here at Liverpool and I'm looking forward to seeing him back fully fit.

"I've only been at the club a short period of time, and when I first arrived, everyone told me about how special he was as a player and a character, and he's even better when you meet him in real life and see how hard he works.

"The injury he's had is normally nine months before you get back at all, so he's back two months early. You only do that through one thing: sheer determination and hard work.

"I know that every day of his life he is fighting hard to get back, and as I said, he's not only a top footballer but a top guy as well."

Rodgers Full Of Praise For Adam Morgan

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers was full of praise for Adam Morgan after the young striker scored the equalizer in the Reds' 1-1 draw against Toronto FC.

The 18-year-old netted in the 69th minute after Quincy Amarikwa had given the Canadians the lead in the pre-season friendly.

Morgan had only arrived in Canada on the morning of the match and headed straight to the bench to hug his new boss after converting from close range.

Rodgers told Liverpool's official website: "He's a really, really good kid. He's come in, he's taken everything on board that I've talked about.

"He's technically good, he's got a natural eye for a goal - if he doesn't arrive at that moment, the goal doesn't go in because the defender would have got to the line to defend it.

"He's got that natural instinct to score but I was also pleased with the cleverness in his pressing. He pressed the ball really well. That forced them into some mistakes.

"It was a great moment for him. His father flew in this morning from Liverpool, so to get here and to see the goal would have been a special moment."

The former Swansea manager was pleased that his tactical instructions were followed by the players as he tries to get the Reds playing his possession-orientated brand of football.

He added: "We've still got a long way to go. It's very important that we dictate games, we control games, we dominate games. You saw for large parts of the game we forced Toronto back.

"It's just that penetration that will get better as time goes on, because possession is no good on its own.

"Some of the movement patterns were very good and it'll get better."

Rodgers Outlines Tour Benefits

Brendan Rodgers could not hide his excitement at the prospect of embarking on Liverpool's pre-season tour of North America when he spoke to Liverpoolfc.com just before the squad departed from John Lennon Airport.

Rodgers and his team will spend two weeks stateside preparing for clashes against Toronto FC in Canada on July 21, AS Roma at Fenway Park on July 25, and Tottenham in Baltimore on July 28.

And the manager explained how he was looking forward to touching down in Boston and building on what he believes has already proved to be a positive and productive pre-season at Melwood.

"We've had a real good couple of weeks work at home and obviously when you travel abroad, especially to great countries like America and Canada, you find out different things about the group," said the manager.

"We're really looking forward to the sun - we had a bit of rain this morning in Liverpool! The whole group - the players, the staff - is looking forward to it."

A selection of youngsters joined Rodgers and his squad as they left Liverpool for the three-game tour and the manager revealed how he will use the trip to the US to analyze every player in his squad.

"It's a great pre-season for me because I get to look at the younger players and the senior players," said Rodgers. "So they all feel there's hope right through the club.

"I've also got some of the staff from the Academy coming with me. I feel it's important that they understand how I work, on and off the field, because when we come back, it all becomes really, really busy and you're getting into your focus for the games.

"So it's a great integration for the players and the staff and we will enjoy it and work hard which is important."

Liverpool will set up base at Harvard University when they arrive in the states. The university boasts fine training facilities including full-size indoor running tracks and three Olympic pools.

"I think Harvard University is one of the most renowned and historic universities in the world," explained Rodgers. "So for us it's a real privilege to go there and do our work.

"But the most important thing is our mentality. First and foremost, the objective is to go and work and work hard. And secondly it's to bring the great name of Liverpool to other supporters over in that part of the world. Most importantly, we're there to work and work hard."

Rodgers' first game as Liverpool manager will come against Toronto on July 21 and whilst the boss is excited to finally take up position in the Reds dug-out, he insists that results aren't everything in pre-season.

"When you're a player, a coach or a manager, you never want to lose any game that you play," he said. "But I certainly won't be losing sleep over it.

"Of course we haven't got the majority of our squad and some of the core players within our group here but the most important thing at the minute is that we're getting players up to speed.

"Our objective is the first pre-season game. We want to get that underway and then concentrate on the first league game which is on the 18th and that's when we'll look to be ready."

Adam - Reds Must Be Fearless

Charlie Adam hopes Brendan Rodgers can get Liverpool playing without fear, with his success at Swansea proving how important confidence can be.

Throughout his time in charge of the Swans, Rodgers never wavered in his belief that football is a passing game and is a sport which should be enjoyed by those fortunate to compete at the highest level.

The results he was able to generate speak for themselves, with the Welsh outfit having secured promotion to the Premier League and winning a host of admirers during their debut campaign in the top-flight.

Liverpool's owners were among those to have been impressed by his work at the Liberty Stadium and offered Rodgers the chance to succeed Kop legend Kenny Dalglish at Anfield this summer.

It remains to be seen whether the Northern Irishman can bring the good times back to the red half of Merseyside, but Adam is confident that the Reds have got the right man for the job.

The Scotland international midfielder told the Liverpool Echo: "The owners brought in a new manager who has been in the game a long time.

"It doesn't matter who you are, if the owners think you have got the right credentials to take the club forward in the way they want to do it, that's great.

"Just look at what the manager achieved at Swansea.

"They played some terrific football last season and deserved every plaudit.

"Brendan Rodgers identified the players who would be able to play the system of football he believes in and they played with total belief and absolutely no fear.

"If he can get his ideas to work here like he did at Swansea, then I am sure he will be a successful Liverpool manager."

Liverpool Poised To Test Fulham's Resolve With Dempsey Bid

Liverpool is set to make a £5m move for Fulham striker Clint Dempsey.

Martin Jol is desperate to keep last season's top scorer and has offered the American a new deal to keep him at Craven Cottage.

But with just 12 months left on his current deal sources close to the club have told talkSPORT they are bracing themselves for a bid from Liverpool.

Dempsey, 29, impressed with 23 goals for the Cottagers last campaign and was linked with a move across London to Arsenal back in January.

New Reds boss Brendan Rodgers is keen to land the American and could pair Dempsey with Luis Suarez and new signing Fabio Borini in a new-look Anfield strikeforce.

Liverpool Linked With Swoop For Arsenal Winger

Liverpool are being linked with a surprise swoop for Arsenal star Theo Walcott, after it was claimed that Brendan Rodgers wants to bring the winger to Anfield this summer.

According to reports in The Sun, Rodgers wants to add more natural width to his inherited Liverpool side, as he looks to replicate the set-up he enjoyed at Swansea last season, with Scott Sinclair and Nathan Dyer operating on the flanks.

Liverpool currently have Stewart Downing who can play wide on the left, but lack conviction on the right hand side, with Jordan Henderson frequently played out of position last season.

With Walcott in the final year of his contract at Arsenal, he could be a viable option for Rodgers, with his current £65,000-a-week wages not thought to be a stumbling block for Liverpool.

The Sun also claim that the England international could be available for around £15 million, with Andy Carroll rumoured to be up for sale as Rodgers looks to drum up funds for further strengthening.

While Carroll offers strength and a dominant aerial presence, he struggled to find his feet at Anfield last season.

Question marks have rightly or wrongly started to hover over his head, as he looks to shake off the shackles of his £35 million price tag. These have increased following Liverpool's £8 million acquisition of Fabio Borini, and could spell the end of Carroll's short stint on Merseyside.

Liverpool Targets Olympiacos Ace

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is eyeing Olympiacos ace Kevin Mirallas, according to reports.

The 24-year-old is thought to be keen on a move to the Premier League, with Anfield his preferred destination.

Rodgers has targeted the Belgian international, who can play either out wide or up front, as he looks to strengthen his forward line.

Dutchman Dirk Kuyt has already left Merseyside this summer, with Maxi Rodriguez and Andy Carroll likely to follow him out the exit door.

And Mirallas, who scored an impressive 20 goals in just 25 league matches last season, will certainly be able to provide the firepower that Liverpool are looking for.

The former St Etienne star, who is also being watched by Arsenal, is thought to be available for a modest £10million fee.

Gökhan Töre On Liverpool's Radar

Liverpool have expressed interest in Gökhan Töre following Hamburg's decision to transfer list their highly-sought after winger.

The Reds had been rumoured with making a move for Töre earlier in the season however, the Bundesliga outfit were reluctant to part ways with the Turkish international.

Liverpool invested heavily in wingers last season however, they failed to have the desired impact. £20 million transfer Stewart Downing only made two assists in 36 games.

Fifteen million pounds signing Jordan Henderson who was deployed on the right wing only scored twice and made two assists.

Recently appointed manager Brendan Rodgers is expected to implement a 4-3-3 set-up and has been active in the transfer market in the pursuit of players which would suit the system making Töre an ideal candidate on the right wing.

Hamburg has set an asking price of €5 million for their 20-year-old winger.

The Bundesliga outfit is in the midst of financial difficulties and hopes to cash in on their highly sought-after young prospect.

Töre was regarded as one of Chelsea's brightest prospects when he was recruited to the youth academy in 2009 by Frank Arnesen, the Blues former head of talent scout.

The Turkish international winger became a regular in the youth team helping them win the 2010-2011 season making 16 starts and scoring four times.

Töre joined Hamburg last season after Frank Arnesen resigned from his position at Chelsea and took up the role of Sporting Director at Hamburg.

The 20-year-old Turkish international missed a large part of last season through injury however, he still managed to finish the season as statistically, the most successful dribbler in Europe.

Töre has also been linked with a move to Beşiktaş, Galatasaray, Rubin Kazan as well as a move back to the Premiership.

Newcastle Poised To Improve Loan Offer For Carroll

Newcastle are expected to return with an improved offer to take Liverpool's Andy Carroll on a season-long loan with a view to a permanent deal in future.

Liverpool dismissed Newcastle's first offer on Sunday night, but the Anfield club will consider a better deal.

Newcastle initially only offered to pay part of Carroll's £80,000-a-week wages.

Newcastle also wanted to pay £13m if the 23-year-old then signed a permanent deal, although the Reds are understood to want at least £17m.

The Newcastle hierarchy has retained their admiration for Carroll since he left for Liverpool in 2011.

He had initially resolved to prove himself to new Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers but is now understood to be keen to return to his hometown club.

Carroll was not with the Liverpool squad as they left for a pre-season tour of North America on Monday having been granted an extended holiday after Euro 2012.

The England international is due to join up with the squad on 23 July, alongside other internationals such as captain Steven Gerrard and goalkeeper Pepe Reina.

West Ham co-owner David Gold has also said the Upton Park club would be interested in signing Carroll.

Carroll struggled with Liverpool until belatedly finding both form and goals towards the end of last season.

He headed the winner for Liverpool against Blackburn, while also scoring against Everton in a FA Cup semi-final win and the 2-1 loss to Chelsea in the final.

He scored for England at Euro 2012 in the win against Sweden, but appears to have fallen out of favour at Anfield.

Rodgers signed striker Fabio Borini from Roma this week, his first signing since taking over.

He is also planning contract talks to keep Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez at Anfield but has been noncommittal when talking about Carroll's future.

The striker helped the Magpies back into the Premier League with 17 league goals in the 2009-10 Championship season.

Carroll continued his promising form in the top flight in the following campaign and made his senior England debut under Fabio Capello in a 2-1 defeat by France at Wembley.

He scored 11 times in 19 league games before becoming the most expensive British player when ex-Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish took him to Anfield.

Hughes Cools Bellamy Talk

Queens Park Rangers boss Mark Hughes has played down reports that he is set to sign Craig Bellamy from Liverpool.

It has been suggested that Rangers are lining up a move to lure Bellamy away from Anfield this summer.

Bellamy's future at Liverpool has been the subject of speculation all summer with Cardiff declaring an interest in re-signing the forward.

Hughes, who worked with Bellamy with Wales and Manchester City, is a big admirer of the 33-year-old, but has cooled talk of an imminent move for the player.

"There has been a lot of speculation over Craig. Yes I know him very well. But at the moment it is all speculation," said Hughes.

Hughes has vowed Rangers will do better than last season after escaping relegation on the final day of the season.

"Now I have more time to prepare the side and get the quality players that were lacking before," added Hughes.

"I can say that QPR has a great future and obviously we will do better than last season. We are confident that we won't be struggling."

Holtby Offers No Hints

Schalke midfielder Lewis Holtby is reluctant to speculate on proposed contract talks or reports linking him with a move to the Premier League.

The Germany international has confessed in the past to being an admirer of the English top-flight, sparking speculation that he could soon be on the move.

Liverpool, Everton, Arsenal and Manchester United have all been linked with the talented 21-year-old.

They have been offered hope by the fact that Holtby's current contract at Schalke is due to expire next summer.

He is yet to pen an extension and admits to being uncertain as to what the future will hold.

Holtby is, however, keen to avoid being dragged into an endless rounds of transfer gossip and claims his focus is locked solely on his football.

"I am under contract with the club and I am a Schalke player," he said.

"I just want to focus on playing football.

"I like it at Schalke. I will give my best in training and the manager will decide if I am a first team player."

Borini Makes Reds Move

Liverpool have announced that Fabio Borini will be turning out at Anfield next season, with the striker having completed a move from Serie A outfit Roma.

The Italy international has passed a medical and signed a long-term contract.

His arrival on Merseyside makes him Brendan Rodgers' first signing since taking the Reds' managerial reins.

Borini is a man Rodgers knows well, having previously worked with him in Chelsea's academy system and during his time in charge of Swansea City.

Liverpool believes the 21-year-old represents sound transfer business, as he is one for the present and future.

Borini has a proven track record when it comes to finding the target and formed part of Italy's squad at Euro 2012.

He will be hoping to hit the ground running upon his return to England, with a first taste of the Premier League awaiting him.

"Liverpool has confirmed they have completed the signing of AS Roma forward Fabio Borini," read a statement released on the club's official website.

"The Italy international has put pen to paper on a long-term deal with the Reds after agreeing terms and passing a medical at Melwood.

Rodgers Backs Borini To Shine

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers believes that the club's fans will "love" new signing Fabio Borini.

The Reds and Roma have finalised a deal, which will see Borini put pen to paper on a long-term contract at Anfield, worth approximately £7.9 million.

"Fabio fits the model of what we're trying to do in building not only for now, but also for the future," Rodgers told Liverpool's website.

"He's a big talent, 21 years of age, he scores goals, and his passion, focus and concentration are very important parts of his game - and a big part of what you want from a player.

"I think the supporters will love him. He's a multi-functional player who can play in a number of positions and someone I believe has got great growth.

"I'd anticipate that over the next two or three years he'll really progress and I'm sure do very well for Liverpool.

"He is arguably the best physical player I've worked with in terms of his pace, power and fitness.

"Mentally, he's very strong. We've got a player who is on the up and someone who I think Liverpool will benefit from."

Borini Knew He Would Be Back

Fabio Borini has expressed his delight at securing a return to English football with Liverpool, while Brendan Rodgers has saluted his first Reds signing.

Italy international Borini has completed a switch to Anfield after passing a medical and putting pen to paper on a long-term contract.

His arrival on Merseyside from Italian outfit Roma offers him the chance to work closely with Rodgers again, a man he knows well from his days with Chelsea and Swansea City.

Borini has been snapped up to add a different dimension to Liverpool's attacking unit, and the 21-year-old is confident he can deliver the goods in the Premier League.

He told the club's official website: "I felt really good because I wanted to come back to England one day. I knew sooner or later I would be back.

"Being back with Liverpool is even better because I can show the people what I can do - we've got the Europa League and lots of things to play for.

"I hope to achieve the maximum I can, by scoring goals, getting into the Champions League and all of the things the club also wants - and all the other players.

"It's a top club that has won a lot of trophies in the past, and will do so in the future we hope as well."

Borini becomes Rodgers' first piece of transfer business since he inherited the managerial reins at Anfield from Kenny Dalglish.

Adam - Reds Must Change Luck

Charlie Adam insists Liverpool must 'change their own luck' this term as they look to put last season's disappointment behind them.

The Reds finished eighth in the Premier League last term - their lowest finish in 18 years.

Midfielder Adam believes bad luck played its part in their poor campaign and is determined they can come back stronger this season under new boss Brendan Rodgers.

He told the Daily Star: "They say the table doesn't lie but we didn't deserve to finish eighth. If we had had a bit of luck on our side we probably would have finished higher.

"But it's done and gone now. We move forward and hopefully we will finish better than we did last season.

"I can't believe the amount of times we drew at home. It was incredible but you have got to change your own luck.

"If we work hard and do the right things next season we will be further up the table.

"This is one of the best clubs in the world and the opportunity to play here is a dream for any player.

"We have the right people on board and the right players. Hopefully we can keep progressing as a club. Bridging that gap doesn't happen overnight.

"But if you have the right balance, the right group of players and you work hard, you never know what can happen."

Adam believes a lack of consistency is where the Reds fell down last season, adding: "Manchester City and United were up there last time because they were consistent the whole season.

"We were inconsistent. We drew too many games."

The Scotland midfielder says Liverpool's players are desperate to return to the UEFA Champions League.

"Everyone wants to play in the Champions League. It's the pinnacle," he said.

"For us, we're in the Europa League. We want to try and get into the group stages and try and win every game.

"That's the expectation of this club. It's the expectation of the supporters and the players inside the dressing room."

Lambert Will Not Rule Out Villa Move For Carroll

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert refused to rule out a loan move for Liverpool striker Andy Carroll.

Lambert watched his Villa side defeat Burton Albion in a pre-season friendly, thanks to an own goal and a strike from new signing Brett Holman.

Post-match attentions turned to Villa's summer transfer activity, with Lambert linked to Liverpool forward Carroll. Following Grant Holt's decision to pen a new contract at Norwich, it is believed Lambert is still on the lookout for a target man.

Carroll could be available on loan from Liverpool, according to Brendan Rodgers, and Villa are joined by AC Milan and West Ham in their reported interest in the striker. Quizzed on the issue on Saturday, Lambert ruled nothing out.

"If we can get him that'd be great!" Lambert told Sky Sports News. "I've heard people are linked with him. That doesn't surprise me.

"He's a top player and not one I would dismiss."

Liverpool Striker Emerges As Surprise Target For QPR

Queens Park Rangers manager Mark Hughes is hoping that he will be reunited with striker Craig Bellamy after deciding to approach Liverpool about a potential permanent deal.

The west London club has reportedly lost on signing Junior Hoilett and Hughes has now turned his attention to trying to sign Bellamy who has just one-year left on his contract at Anfield.

The Evening Standard has reported that Hughes still has a good relationship with the striker after working with him at Manchester City and Wales. He is therefore hoping that he can convince the forward to move down to London in the coming weeks.

QPR appear to have missed out on signing Hoilett who is apparently interested in playing in the Bundesliga where he previously spent some time on-loan from Blackburn.

Akos Buzsaky has also left the club after rejecting the offer of a new contract and Hughes is keen to bring in reinforcements as they attempt to retain their place in the Premier League.