Liverpool have been widely linked with a move for Theo Walcott, whilst talks over Raheem Sterling’s new contract have been placed on hold.
Sterling has emerged as not only a key member of Brendan Rodgers’ side over the past couple of years, but as also one of the most exciting talents in European football. The 20-year-old forward, a former Queens Park Rangers trainee, has scored 20 goals in 73 appearances in all competitions for the Reds since the start of the 2013-14 campaign.
However, the England international, who has 13 caps for his country and appeared at the World Cup Finals in Brazil, has been deliberating over a new contract at Anfield. His current deal runs until the summer of 2017, and Rodgers has claimed that the youngster has been offered an ‘incredible’ package to extend his stay with on the red half of Merseyside.
With the likes of Manchester City and even Real Madrid said to be interested in Sterling, these are nervous times for Liverpool as they look to bounce back from their poor start to the season to clinch a place in the top-four of the Premier League. And with this being the priority for all at the club, talks over a new deal have been placed on hold until the summer.
“He wants to concentrate on his football and see what can be resolved in the summer,” said Rodgers. “I am sure it will be resolved and the concentration for Raheem is now on his football, and it is clear the terms of when those talks will begin again. The boy is happy here and if you have the interest of the kid at this stage of his career, this is the best place to be.”
Regardless of whether Sterling signs a new contract or not, Liverpool are widely reported to be keeping tabs on Walcott’s situation at Arsenal. The former Southampton youngster was a target for Rodgers two years ago before the forward signed a new deal at the Emirates Stadium, but this agreement wasn’t long-term and is already in its final 15 months.
The England international, who celebrated his 26th birthday on Monday, is thought to want an improvement on his current £100,000 weekly salary. He is also likely to consider other options if his absence from Arsene Wenger’s side continues, and this could present Rodgers with an opportunity to entice him to Merseyside when the transfer window reopens.
