Liverpool Owner States Suarez Is Not For Sale

Liverpool’s owner, John Henry, has announced that star striker Luis Suarez will not be sold this summer for any price, according to reports.

BBC Sport reported comments made by Henry that seem to quell any transfer for the Uruguayan away from Anfield.

He said, “We are not going to sell Luis. It’s very important not to sell to a rival, but especially for Liverpool because we’re not in Europe this year.”

On the subject of selling the player to Premier League rivals Arsenal, Henry said that it would be “ludicrous” to make such a deal.

The transfer speculation surrounding Suarez’s future has been well document this summer and the same article highlights that the striker has been told to train alone following his outburst against the club and since he is seeking a move to Arsenal.

It is well known that Arsenal has already have had two offers for the player rejected this summer but it is thought that Suarez may still move abroad, according to the same article.

Henry, however, is claiming that offers from foreign clubs will also be rejected. The article reports the owner saying, “He won’t be sold even if a foreign club comes in because we do not have time to sign a suitable replacement.”

“It is not about finances. So late in the window....we can’t replace him. So for football reasons we can’t sell, and especially to Arsenal.”

It is unknown whether Arsenal will make another offer for the player after Henry has so adamantly stated that Suarez will not be leaving Anfield this summer.

Liverpool Approach Bayern Over Loan Deal For Contento

Liverpool has approached Bayern Munich over a deal for Diego Contento as their search for a new left back continues.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers is desperate to add another option to his squad ahead of the new season, with Jose Enrique the club’s only recognized left-sided defender.

And according to reports in Germany the man being lined up is 23-year-old Bayern ace Contento, who has been told he can leave by manager Pep Guardiola.

Contento made just five appearances last season but is highly rated, and has been strongly linked with Werder Bremen and Hertha Berlin in the last few days.

However, it’s thought Liverpool are ready to put down a £1million loan fee and bring him to the Premier League with a view to a permanent deal.

Talks between the two teams are believed to be at an early stage, but Contento would prefer a switch to England over the other options on the table.

The move represents a breakthrough for Rodgers, who has already seen two deals collapse in recent weeks for other targets he had in mind.

First a move for Benfica’s Lorenzo Melgarejo hit the buffers after he failed to win a work permit, while a row over wages has meant Aly Cissokho’s proposed transfer from Valencia has stalled.

Contento will be a far easier deal to complete, as he bids to try and force his way into the Germany squad ahead of the World Cup next year.

Assaidi To Swap Liverpool For QPR

Liverpool winger Oussama Assaidi looks set to join Championship outfit Queens Park Rangers on a season-long loan as Harry Redknapp looks to increase his attacking options.

Assaidi has only been at Liverpool for a year having signed for £3million last summer from Dutch side Heerenveen.

His lack of first team appearances have meant he was looking elsewhere for regular football, the Daily Mail reporting that he also had offers from clubs in Holland and Belgium.

QPR have lost Adel Taarabt, Ji-Sung Park, Loic Remy and Jamie Mackie this summer and are looking to replace them as quickly as possible.

The article suggests Redknapp has turned his attentions to Peter Odemwingie, who wanted a deal with the club during the January transfer window, and West Ham target Duvan Zapata.

Sixteen players left the club permanently this summer as part of a mass exodus following their relegation to the Championship last season.

Arsenal & Liverpool After Santos Youngster

Victor Andrade has been hailed as the next Neymar and is being targeted by a whole host of English clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool.

Santos, the club that nurtured Neymar before his big money move to Barcelona this summer, now has 17-year-old Andrade on their books and he is being hotly tipped as the next Brazilian star.

The youngster is yet to be tied down by Santos on a long-term contract and this has grabbed attention from Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City, as well as Liverpool and Newcastle, Sky Sports report.

Sky Sports reveal that Andrade is represented by the NVA Entertainment Group in England.

A spokesman for the company spoke to Sky Sports and said: "We can confirm that there is interest in England in Victor, and not unsurprisingly from some of the bigger clubs.

"Victor is a wonderful talent, but we and his family are calm and we are confident his future will be resolved at the right time, in the right way."

Former Manchester City striker Robinho is the 17-year-old’s godfather and he has told him what it was like to play in Europe.

"Quite simply, I would love to play in Europe," Andrade was quoted by the Mirror.

"My godfather Robinho has told me of the great experiences he had at Real Madrid, Manchester City and AC Milan. He told me how it made him a better player because playing in Europe means you must adapt to different styles and systems."

It looks likely that one of the English clubs interested in Andrade will sign the striker after he revealed that the Premier League was on his mind.

"I think it will be a great education for me. Everybody around the world knows about the strength of the Premier League.

"It is a very exciting prospect for me. My dream is to play for Brazil in the World Cup and I believe that moving to Europe will help me because it will help my all-round game.

Andrade has decided to take the plunge quicker than Neymar, stating he is ready to leave this season even at just 17 years old.

"I have no problem with Santos. They have helped me a lot. But I think the time is right for me to experience a change."

Javier Mascherano Ruling Nothing Out

Javier Mascherano has revealed to El Pais that he cannot say with any certainty whether he will be staying at Barcelona.

The versatile Argentina international is reported to be considering his future at Camp Nou following the arrival of Gerardo Martino as coach.

A return to former club Liverpool has been mooted, with Mascherano having enjoyed three-and-a-half productive years at Anfield before heading for Spain in August 2010.

The 29-year-old is ruling nothing out with the summer transfer window still open and admits he would have no qualms about moving on if informed that he is surplus to requirements.

Mascherano told El Pais: "You never know. In football, you have to be prepared for anything.

"There were calls from somewhere else, but no offers.

"There are always doubts. You are at Barcelona and you have to fight for your place.

"The question is whether you now fight in the same circumstances, as I have always had to win my starting place throughout my career. It's as it should be.

"If Barca tell me they don't need me, I will be off within a minute."

Liverpool Target Sakho Considers Move Away From PSG

Liverpool has been given hope in their pursuit of Mamadou Sakho with the defender admitting he may need a move away from PSG to resurrect his international career.

Reports in France suggest that Sakho is considering his future in the French capital after missing out on Didier Deschamps' squad to face Belguim.

According to L'Equipe Sakho has been stung by comments from Deschamps about why he was overlooked in favour of Monaco's 33-year-old Eric Abidal and is now ready to contemplate a transfer.

Asked about Sakho, Deschamps said: "This is life. This is his career. He had a choice to make and apparently he made it. I do not know if everyone understands [why he was overlooked] but he does. His choice is PSG."

"He returned a little later because he went with us [to the Confederations Cup]. Since then he has played twice, 60 minutes.

"He did not play the Champions Trophy. I do not know if he will play Friday against Montpellier. They know [they will not be selected if they are not playing].

"They make a choice. After all, it is their career. They have people who are there to guide them.

"In his situation it comes down to the fact that he has to be selectable to be selected."

Liverpool and AC Milan have both been linked with a move for Sakho but the player previously expressed a preference to remain with boyhood club PSG.

Last month he said: "I am flattered by the interest of historic clubs like Liverpool and AC Milan. We will see what happens in the near future.

"I have to make a decision. PSG is my club, I was born here and I learned my football here. I want to play for this club all my life, but it is clear that I do not want to sit on the bench."

And Liverpool may now be encouraged to rekindle their interest in the hope that Sakho's desire to work his way back into Deschamps' plans in a World Cup year outweighs his desire to remain in Paris.

Liverpool continues to be linked with a host of central defenders with the futures of Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel still up in the air.

West Ham In Shock £6m Bid For Downing

West Ham last night made a surprise bid for Liverpool flop Stewart Downing.

The Merseyside club is looking to offload the winger after a couple of disappointing seasons at Anfield following a big money move from Aston Villa.

But they were struggling to find a suitor until West Ham stepped up with a £6m bid yesterday evening, the Mirror reports.

The paper says that talks between the player and the Upton Park hierarchy are at an advanced stage, with Downing’s current wages of 80,000 being one of the only stumbling blocks left.

The fee would represent a significant loss for Liverpool, who paid £20 for the England international just two years ago, but Brendan Rodgers is being ruthless as he looks to totally transform his squad.

Downing would not be the first cut price Liverpool flop West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has picked up this summer; the Hammers have already signed Andy Carroll from Anfield.

Rodgers Rules Out Move For Cissokho & Costa

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has ruled out a move for Aly Cissokho of Valencia and says Diego Costa deal now seems unlikely.

Rumours suggested that Liverpool had agreed to pay Valencia £870,000 for a year-long loan with the option to make the deal permanent at the end of the season for a further £3.5million.

'There’s nothing on the Cissokho story,' Rodgers said.

The full-back had claimed that terms have been agreed with Liverpool, although admitted that any move is far from finalized.

'Liverpool has made me an offer and it is true that I have reached an agreement with them,' Cissokho told Le 10 Sport.

'It is now up to the clubs to agree terms. I expect to know more later this week.

'If nothing happens this week, it probably means that I will not be going to Liverpool.

'The conditions of the transfer are the problem. Liverpool prefers a loan deal with an option to buy, while Valencia wants to sell straight away.

'If the transfer doesn’t take place, it’s not a problem either. I am feeling well at Valencia.'

He added: 'I believe Costa has signed an extension. There’s nothing in terms of players to add.

'We’ve signed players early on and we hope to sign some more before the end of the window.

In the meantime, there’s nothing at the minute.'

Atletico Madrid striker Costa, who scored 20 goals in 44 matches for the Spanish club last season said earlier in the week: 'I'm well here, I'm happy here.

'As I've been in Argentina and Uruguay I've not heard anything about this. I'm happy here, if the club wants me to be here, I'm going to be here.

'I think that our coach (Diego Simeone) counts on all of us, not just me. He knows how important it is to maintain the squad, the fans know it as well.'

Jay Spearing Joins Bolton

Jay Spearing has completed his move to Bolton from Liverpool for an undisclosed fee.

The midfielder spent most of last season on loan with the Trotters, featuring in 37 games, and boss Dougie Freedman had made capturing him on a permanent basis one of his highest priorities this summer.

Spearing, who signed a four-year deal, endeared himself to the Bolton faithful last year which led to many fans chanting his name during the draw with Burnley last Saturday.

"Jay wanted to come here and wanted to play for the Bolton Wanderers jersey. He brings qualities to the football club both on and off the field," Freedman told the club's official website.

"He turned down a few other clubs to come here and he knows and likes the style of our management team.

"We really have to thank the board and owners on this one. The support we've had has been great in helping us to acquire such a fantastic young player."

Agger Named Reds Vice-Captain

Daniel Agger has been confirmed as Liverpool's new vice-captain.

The defender replaces Jamie Carragher following the 35-year-old's retirement at the end of last season.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers considered a number of candidates for the role over the summer before confirming the decision to appoint Agger before the Reds departed for Dublin on Friday.

Rodgers said: "The job of the captain and vice-captain here at Liverpool is very, very important. I wanted to give myself time over the course of the pre-season to assess a number of the players and obviously Daniel was one of them.

"His loyalty and his passion for Liverpool is second to none. And if you add that on to his footballing qualities, then I think it's a good choice for everybody."

Agger, 28, joined Liverpool in January 2006 from Brondby and has gone on to make more than 200 appearances for the club, scoring 12 goals.

The Denmark skipper signed a new long-term contract with the Reds in October 2012 and played 35 league matches last season - his highest since joining the club.

Five Liverpool Players Out Injured

Liverpool has flown out to Norway for Wednesday’s pre-season friendly with Valerenga without Luis Suarez, Glen Johnson, Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel who have all received knocks.

Johnson, Agger and Skrtel are being rested back on Merseyside “as a precaution”, according to a statement issued by the club earlier today.

Meanwhile Suarez will undergo a scan on his foot after sustaining an injury during Monday’s open training session at Anfield.

Daniel Sturridge also doesn’t travel, as expected, as he continues his full recovery from the ankle injury sustained whilst on international duty in May. Sturridge did however train with his teammates for the first time yesterday.

The Liverpool squad that travels to Norway is: Jones, Enrique, Toure, Alberto, Gerrard, Aspas, Coutinho, Assaidi, Henderson, Coates, Downing, Spearing, Lucas, Mignolet, Allen, Borini, Sterling, Kelly, Flanagan, Ibe, Wisdom.

No doubt the non-inclusion of Suarez in the squad will further fuel the British media’s pursuit of a good transfer story, with the Uruguayan still linked with a big money exit from Anfield this summer.

Brendan Rodgers will be hoping his squad can continue their 100% record in this summer’s pre-season games, having won five from five so far and clean sheets in all.

The Reds face Valerenga, who are currently seventh in the Norwegian Tippeligaen on Wednesday. They then face Celtic in Dublin on Saturday in their final warm-up game before the Premier League kicks off on Saturday, 17th August.

Allen Hails Striking Options

Midfielder Joe Allen believes Liverpool is now better equipped to deal with the absence of last season's leading goalscorer Luis Suarez.

The Uruguay international, who has told the club he wants to play in the Champions League, is suspended for the first six games of this season as his 10-match ban for biting Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic is carried over.

There is also the prospect the 26-year-old will not still be at the club come next month as he has been the subject of two failed bids from Arsenal - the last being an offer of £40million plus £1 which they thought would trigger a sale clause.

While Liverpool have remained steadfast in their stance that Suarez is not for sale, speculation about his future refuses to go away, with legal action and Premier League arbitration reported to be possible routes his advisors are exploring.

Allen, unlike captain Steven Gerrard who has told Suarez he wants him to stay, has steered clear of becoming involved in the saga.

"I think there are individual situations and as players you just get on with it," he told Press Association Sport.

"You keep your nose out. We are all waiting to see what will happen."

But the Wales international feels there are more goals in the side now than 12 months ago to lessen the impact should Suarez depart. At the start of last season Suarez, who finished the campaign with 30 goals, almost single-handedly carried the club as their only senior striker after Andy Carroll was loaned to West Ham and a last-minute deal for Clint Dempsey fell through.

This summer manager Brendan Rodgers has brought in attacking reinforcements early, securing the services of Celta Vigo forward Iago Aspas and Sevilla midfielder Luis Alberto, and is currently pursuing a £21.8million deal for Atletico Madrid's Diego Costa.

"Maybe that was a slight problem last year in that we didn't quite get the players we wanted in time and it left the squad a bit bare at times," Allen added.

"There were a lot of games, especially early on in the season, when we didn't quite get the breakthrough goal.

"But with the quality that has been brought in to add to the quality we already have, you can see the attacking way we want to play and we are reaping the rewards of that.

"This season we have had the chance to get players in early, which has been great to allow us to have a full pre-season working together.

"If we have any injuries or suspensions we have players who can step in and do the job just as well, so I think the signs are really positive in those regards."

Allen himself was on target in Gerrard's testimonial victory over Olympiacos on Saturday and could easily have had a first-half hat-trick.

Having begun his first season at the club positively his performances tailed off as a shoulder problem got progressively worse and he eventually underwent surgery in March which prematurely ended his campaign.

It did, however, allow him to come back in plenty of time for pre-season and he feels he has benefited from that.

"It has been different. Obviously I've had the chance to have the full pre-season this year because I missed the tour last year (having signed just a week before the new season started)," he said.

"I got a goal and things went quite well on Saturday, although I missed a couple of chances.

"I'd like to think there are a couple of positions I can offer something in so when I get my chance to play whatever position I need to show I can perform and do the job.

"There is massive competition for places in the squad and that is what you want as it as it always brings out the best in everyone.

"You know if you are off your game slightly there is someone waiting in the wings to take your spot."

Liverpool has won all five of their pre-season friendlies and is yet to concede a goal.

They face Valerenga in Norway on Wednesday before heading to Dublin to play Celtic in their final warm-up ahead of the season starting at home to Stoke.

"From the team's point of view we've had a successful tour and some great performances and results in friendlies," Allen said.

"It's an exciting time for the club and everyone involved."

Liverpool Boss Excited About Sturridge Return

Brendan Rodgers is eagerly anticipating the return to full fitness of striker Daniel Sturridge ahead of the new Premier League season.

Sturridge picked up an ankle injury towards the end of last season during England’s friendly with the Republic of Ireland but having missed out on much of pre season the Reds boss is looking forward to his strikers return.

"Thankfully Daniel had his first training session (on Monday) with the team and I thought he looked very sharp," he said in The Times and was quoted on Sky Sports.

"He obviously had an injury at the end of the season which set him back, but he's worked very hard along with the medical guys who have done a great job with him.

"He's played no part in the pre-season so you put him in at the top end of the field with his pace, power and his quality and we are able to add something more to the group as well.

"So it all bodes well for us for the beginning of the season and sets us up nice and solid and exciting for the first game."

If the speculation around Luis Suarez’s future does come to fruition and he was to join Arsenal this summer then Sturridge’s fitness concerns will be move vital to Brendan Rodgers.

Having moved to Merseyside in January this year the England striker grabbed himself 11 goals before the season closed.

Luis Suarez Holding Out For Real Madrid Move

Liverpool forward Luis Suarez is thought to be holding out for a dream move to Real Madrid according to reports.

The 26-year-old Uruguayan has been trying to engineer a move to Arsenal who saw their £40m plus £1 bid rejected by the Reds earlier this month.

The Suarez saga has been dragging on for a while, and he has already stated he wishes to join a team competing in the Champions League.

But now it seems that Real could be in the driving seat for Suarez.

According to The Evening Standard, Suarez is prepared to seek legal clarification from the Premier League over his position in a bid to resurrect interest from the Spanish powerhouses.

It is also thought that there is a growing belief in Suarez's camp that Real will revive their interest should the Premier League rule in his favour.

Brendan Rodgers has hardened his stance on Suarez, saying he is not for sale even though the club values him north of £50m.

Real are yet to table a formal offer, but this could cause them to re-think their plans.

Suarez is Arsenal's main priority after missing out on Gonzalo Higuain who joined Napoli.

Fiorentina To Battle Everton And Liverpool For Verona Starlet

Fiorentina is ready to compete with Everton and Liverpool in an attempt to sign Hellas Verona midfielder Jorginho.

The versatile midfielder has attracted interest from a host of clubs with Premier League duo Liverpool and Everton particularly keen to land the player’s signature.

However, the Viola have now entered the race and are considering a move for the 21-year-old to add to the club’s options in midfield, especially as Adem Ljajic’s future at the club is still in doubt.

The Brazilian born player, who has opted to play for Italy and already has one cap for the Under 21 side, could be tempted with an offer to stay within the peninsula.

However, the club face must act quickly if they are to sign the Verona starlet, as Everton have made the first approach for the player with a €9 million bid according to Sportitalia.

Jorginho has made 77 appearances and scored four goals during his two seasons with Gialloblu.

Liverpool To Off-Load Winger

Liverpool FC is prepared to off-load Stewart Downing at a massive loss with Newcastle United having been told they can sign him for a cut-price £5million.

The winger's representatives have been contacted by the North East outfit to confirm their interest and find out whether he would be keen on a move to St James' Park.

Downing, who cost the Reds £20million from Aston Villa two years ago, has asked for some time to consider his options.

The 29-year-old had no intention of leaving Anfield after being reassured by Brendan Rodgers earlier in pre-season that he remained part of his plans.

However, he now intends to hold talks over his future after learning of Liverpool's willingness to sell him on.

Downing played in Liverpool's opening three friendlies against Preston, Indonesia and Melbourne Victory but has been an unused substitute in the past two games against Thailand and Olympiacos.

Philippe Coutinho, Iago Aspas, Raheem Sterling and Jordon Ibe have all been selected ahead of him in the wide attacking roles.

Downing, who was the subject of interest from West Ham last month, wants to stay put and fight for his place. However, if he's informed he's not going to feature then he will reluctantly agree to a transfer.

Having battled so hard to establish himself as a first-team regular in the second half of last season, the England international doesn't want to go back to life warming the bench.

Downing, who has two years left on his contract, was told by Rodgers last November he could leave in the January transfer window but responded by kick-starting his Anfield career and played a key role in Liverpool's revival.

“I feel settled now,” he said recently. “The first year at Liverpool was difficult but once I established myself in the team last season I really enjoyed it.

“That's why I don't want to leave. If you are playing with good players in a good team then you don't want to lose that.”

Liverpool Tell Napoli To Meet Skrtel Valuations

Liverpool has said they will only sell defender Martin Skrtel to Napoli if they reach their valuations of £12million with a reunion between the Slovakian and Rafa Benitez becoming increasingly likely.

The Daily Mail report that Benitez is ready to step up the chase for his former Liverpool signing but is only considering a loan deal for the defender, similar to that of Pepe Reina who joined Napoli last month.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has been linked with several defenders this summer and the Daily Mail believes Skrtel’s future may lie in the hands of Barcelona as they continue to show interest in Daniel Agger.

Liverpool signed Kolo Toure from Manchester City earlier this summer and Skrtel could be forced to compete for a place in the first eleven despite having been Liverpool’s dependable defender over the past few seasons.

His first team appearances slipped last season and he will be sure to get a lot of playing time if he joins back up with Benitez who signed him for Liverpool in 2008.

Liverpool Deal For Melgarejo Falls Through

Liverpool's bid to sign Benfica defender Lorenzo Melgarejo has fallen through due to problems over a work permit, according to talkSPORT.

The 22-year-old Paraguayan was expected to be the latest addition to Brendan Rodgers' squad at Anfield, but the move has collapsed after he failed to secure a work permit to play in England.

The Benfica star has not played enough matches for the Paraguay national team to qualify for a permit - he's only made one appearance for his country.

The report claims Rodgers will now turn his attention elsewhere, but will continue his search for competition for current first-choice full-back Jose Enrique.

Promising youth team player Jack Robinson has joined Blackpool on loan, opening up a space in the Liverpool squad for a player to challenge the Spanish left-back for a starting berth.

Melgarejo was expected to join Iago Aspas and Luis Alberto - the recent Liverpool signings - on Merseyside, but the Reds will now look at two other full-backs instead.

Top of the shortlist is Valencia left-back Aly Cissokho, while another La Liga star - Guilherme Siqueira from Granada - has also been linked with the Anfield club.

Anderlecht Deny Bid To Take Liverpool Flop

Anderlecht has NOT reached an agreement with Liverpool over the transfer of Oussama Assaidi.

The Morocco international failed to make an impact on Merseyside following a move from Heerenveen last summer and he is surplus to requirements at Anfield.

Assaidi, who has also been linked with Feyenoord and Utrecht in recent weeks, made just six appearances in all competitions under Brendan Rodgers.

And reports earlier this week claimed Anderlecht had struck a £2.6m deal with the Reds to sign the winger - but the Belgian giants insist this is not the case.

Krisztian Adorjan Hopes For Groningen Impact

Liverpool forward Krisztian Adorjan says he hopes that a loan spell with Dutch side Groningen can put him in good stead to push for a first-team place at Anfield in the future.

The 20-year old joined the Reds as a youth player in 2009, but has spent the majority of his time on Merseyside playing in the under-21s.

With the arrival of Iago Aspas and Luis Alberto this summer, chances were likely to have been limited again this season, and Adorjan says it is important that he gets a taste of first-team football.

"Erwin van de Looi told me after my first friendly game in Groningen that he'd like to sign me," the Hungarian told Nemzeti Sport.

"Liverpool sign complete footballers for their first team, it's not impossible but very difficult to get in next to Luis Suarez or Steven Gerrard.

"I outgrew the second team so I'm happy that I signed to Holland and I can show myself in the first team of a first division team. It's important that I can go on with my development here."

Adorjan also admitted that he was keen to follow in the footsteps of some of the players to have starred for Groningen down the years, including Liverpool team-mate Luis Suarez.

"I'm prepared for the city and the club. This was Luis Suarez' first club in Europe and Arjen Robben and Erwin Koeman also played here."

Liverpool To Step Up Interest In Diego Costa

Liverpool is expected to increase their interest in Atletico Madrid’s Diego Costa, with talks anticipated between the two parties this week.

The Reds were thought to have lodged a £22m bid for the striker last week, although reports in Spain denied any approach from Brendan Rodgers’ side.

However, according to the Liverpool Echo, Atletico are prepared to let the Merseyside club speak with their Brazilian international later this week, as they attempt to iron out a deal.

Should Rodgers seal the arrival of Costa, the 24-year-old would become the fifth new face at Anfield this summer, as they look to build a squad capable of challenging for the top four.

Meanwhile, the future of Luis Suarez remains uncertain, with the Uruguayan believed to be contemplating handing in an official transfer request.

Suarez appeared at an open training session at Anfield on Monday, but is still the subject of strong interest from Arsenal, despite Liverpool already rejecting two official bids from the Gunners.

Liverpool To Rival Torino For Ligue 1 Defender

Liverpool has made a last-ditch attempt to sign Saint Etienne defender Faouzi Ghoulam from under the noses of Torino, reports the Daily Star.

The 22-year-old full-back has been heavily linked with a move to Serie 'A' in recent weeks, with reports emanating earlier today that Ghoulam had agreed personal terms with the Italian club.

However, Brendan Rodgers could be about to hijack Torino's bid to sign the Algeria international, as Liverpool step up their search for defensive reinforcements at Anfield this summer.

With Jose Enrique the only recognized senior left-back at the Merseyside club at the moment, Glen Johnson was forced to play out of position on the left side of the Liverpool defence last season.

Rodgers wants to add competition for the former Newcastle United defender before the transfer window closes on September 1, and sees Ghoulam as a bright young prospect capable of pushing for a place in the first-team.

The Algerian made 26 Ligue 1 appearances for Saint Etienne last season, and has continued to impress in his full-back role since making his debut at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in 2010.

Liverpool Ready To Make Capel Their Fifth Signing

Liverpool is considering a £6million move for Sporting Lisbon winger Diego Capel as they step up their summer recruitment policy.

If Red boss Brendan Rodgers decides to go ahead with the swoop he will be confident of fending off opposition from Marseille for the 25-year-old player.

The French club have had offers of £2m and £3m rejected by Sporting, who are determined their valuation will be met.

Capel agreed a five-year contract when he was signed from Sevilla two years ago and reports in Portugal suggest he would leap at the chance to play in front of the Kop at Anfield.

Sporting Lisbon would be reluctant to sell if they were not suffering financial difficulties and Capel will definitely strengthen Liverpool’s attacking options.

If the Spain international does move to Merseyside he will be Rodgers’ fifth summer signing and would push the money spent by Liverpool since the end of last season to close to £30m.

Kolo Toure was first in from Manchester City on a free transfer, goalkeeper Simon Mignolet cost £9m from Sunderland while the Reds paid £7.2m to Celta Vigo for Iago Aspas and £6.8m to Sevilla for Luis Alberto.

Liverpool Dealt Blow In Chase For Defender

Saint Etienne defender Kurt Zouma has quashed speculation he's set for a summer move to Liverpool, after reiterating his commitment to the Ligue 1 outfit for the foreseeable future, reports talkSPORT.

The 18-year-old centre-back has attracted admiring glances from a host of top European clubs over the past 12 months, following a fantastic breakthrough campaign in the French top-flight in 2011/12.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers has been credited with an interest in bringing Zouma to Anfield, as he seeks to strengthen his backline before the transfer window closes on September 1.

With the impending sales of Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel, Liverpool is at risk of starting the new Premier League campaign short on central defensive options.

Now, they must turn attention to alternative targets, after Zouma made clear his intention to remain at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard and continue his development.

"There was a lot of noise this summer about a transfer for me," the France U20 international told Le Progres.

"I can only say one thing - I will be at Saint-Etienne this season, for sure."

Atletico Madrid and Anzhi Makhachkala have also been mooted as potential suitors of Zouma, but the Saint Etienne star looks set to continue plying his trade in his homeland in 2013/14.

QPR Launch Bid To Sign Oussama Assaidi

QPR boss Harry Redknapp is awaiting a response from Moroccan international Oussama Assaidi in relation to the Championship side’s request to bring in the Liverpool winger on a season long loan deal according to Sports Direct News.

Having spent a fortune last term the West London side is no doubt looking at cost effective avenues to strengthen the Loftus Road squad and a move to bring in the talented winger will help boost the Super Hoops attack.

The 24 year old Moroccan barely got an opportunity to impress but at the few times he put out an average performance.

Liverpool paid £2.4m to bring in the Heerenveen attacker to Anfield last summer but then preceded to hand the speedy wide-man a grand total of 77 minutes of Premier League action during the space of four substitute run-outs.

Prior to his move to Merseyside, Assaidi spent three seasons at Heerenveen, scoring 22 goals in 93 appearances for the Eredivisie side.

QPR began their quest for a return to the top tier with a comeback win over Sheffield Wednesday.

Liverpool Call Off Move for Benfica Starlet

Liverpool is ready to abandon their pursuit of Benfica full back Lorenzo Melgarejo and instead focus their attention on Valencia's Aly Cissokho as Brendan Rodgers aims to strengthen the left hand side of his defence.

Rodgers is still keen to add to his squad ahead of the new season and has identified left back as a position he needs additional cover in, with Spaniard Jose Enrique currently the club's only option in that area of the pitch.

Liverpool was thought to have tied up a deal for Benfica's 22-year-old defender Lorenzo Melgarejo which would have seen him join the club on an initial season long loan, with the option to buy the player on a permanent basis for €10m next summer.

But Portuguese reports suggest the Premier League club have had a change of heart and will now look to recruit France international Cissokho, who has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Reds who must now settle on a fee with Valencia for the full back's services.

Melgarejo, who joined Benfica from Independiente in 2011, arrived in Europe as a left winger, a position he took up during a loan spell with Pacos Ferreira during the 2011/12 season.

The 22-year-old excelled in his attacking berth, finishing the campaign as the club's top scorer before returning to his parent club.

Despite demonstrating his qualities as a winger, Benfica manager Jorge Jesus opted to drop Melarejo back to full back last season, becoming the club's first choice option on the left hand side of defence.

The Paraguayan international's inexperience in his defensive position may have played some factor in Liverpool's decision to turn their attention to Cissokho, who has operated as a marauding left back his entire career.

Cissokho, who only joined Valencia last summer after spells with Lyon and Porto, recently announced that he was happy to remain at the Mestalla, despite having to settle for just 17 league starts for the club last season.

Having already explored the Spanish league for summer signings Luis Alberto and Iago Aspas, Rodgers could be looking to raid La Liga once again as he seeks to add at least two more players to his squad.

"There are obviously certain areas of the squad where we're a bit thinner than others," Rodgers said at the end of July.

"We probably need a bit more support - that extra bit of quality - at the top end of the field and that's something we'll look out for.

"That'll be mixed with needing cover in the left back position - that's something we're looking at. It's not really about numbers, it's about quality.

"If we can do that over the next number of weeks we'll be happy."

Arsenal And Liverpool Battle For MK Dons Starlet

Liverpool and Arsenal are locked in a transfer battle to land 17 year old youngster Dele Alli, The Mirror has reported today.

The already 6ft 2in midfielder could be the subject of a buy-and-loan-back offer from the two Premier League clubs.

Alli currently plays for MK Dons, and is currently in manager Karl Robinson’s first team plans for this season despite his tender age.

He was watched by senior scouts from both sides during their game against Shrewsbury, reported The Mirror, and a bidding war could erupt at any second.

Alli has won seven youth caps already, and may become the best player that MK has ever produced, and a good offer for him will probably turn their heads.

Arsenal have a history of being a good club for youngsters to go to, as Aaron Ramsey, Carl Jenkinson and Theo Walcott can testify to – while Liverpool have recently started buying young English talent, with Raheem Sterling being possibly their most successful youth buy.

Meanwhile, the club’s management has yet to use their reported £70m transfer kitty to make serious investment in their playing squad. The Gunners have missed out on Gonzalo Higuain, who moved to Napoli – and could still miss out on Luis Suarez, the newspaper claims.

Liverpool however has been very busy this summer, which includes the signings of Iago Aspas and former Arsenal defender Kolo Toure.

Liverpool Target Alderweireld In Everton Sights

Everton’s interest in Ajax star Toby Alderweireld has been confirmed by his agent, Soren Lerby.

Speaking to Dutch paper Het Belang, the former manager revealed The Toffees were in the mix to try and snap up the young centre-back.

Alderweireld - who turned down a move to Norwich earlier this month - is entering the final twelve months of his contract with Ajax and has been heavily linked with a summer move to Liverpool.

But Lerby has confirmed they now face increasing competition from their Merseyside rivals.

He said: "It is true that Everton came forward for Alderweireld.

"Though there are other concrete directions, Toby must now look at which team he finds the most challenging."

The Premier League sides have received a big boost in their hunt for the 24-year-old, after his team-mate Siem de Jong revealed he and Christian Erkisen were still looking to leave the Dutch giants.

He said: "I talk to them about it. I hope they stay and I have spoken with them.

"They may have to wait a little longer and are slightly more concerned with a transfer than I am."

Blues Starlet In High Demand As Liverpool Plan Swoop

Liverpool is hoping to take Chelsea youngster Kenneth Omeruo on loan for the new season, reports the Daily Mail.

The Nigerian defender has moved back to the Premier League after his 18-month loan spell with ADO Den Haag expired.

The 19-year-old, who is also wanted by Swansea and West Brom, is likely to be loaned out again by Chelsea. Boss Jose Mourinho is keen for Omeruo to gain more experience, with his first team options seriously limited.

The former Real Madrid coach believes Omeruo will improve more playing first team football away from the club than with the Chelsea reserves. And after making 27 appearances for ADO Den Haag last year, Omeruo will be hoping to find a club with a similar amount of opportunities.

Liverpool has already added to their defence this season with the free transfer of Kolo Toure from Manchester City. The Ivorian comes in to replace Jamie Carragher, who retired from football at the end of last season.

Omeruo has made 14 international appearances for Nigeria, and was part of the side that won the African Cup of Nations in February.

West Brom will be hoping their relationship with Chelsea will give them an advantage over Liverpool and Swansea, after they took Blues forward Romelu Lukaku on a successful loan spell last season.