Five stars who could replace Chelsea target Sterling.
With outstanding Liverpool youngster refusing to sign a new contract and attracting strong interest from Chelsea, CaughtOffside looks at five players who could replace the £48m-rated England wonderkid at Anfield.
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Based on recent speculation, there are some big names in the pipeline for Liverpool, with the club ready to continue their big spending of this summer’s transfer window, which saw established stars such as Adam Lallana and Mario Balotelli join the club, along with highly promising young wide-man Lazar Markovic.
Still, the club may already be planning Sterling’s replacement, with these five below looking like good options to come in at Anfield.
5) Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)
Possibly available for just £20m next summer, Marco Reus of Borussia Dortmund is among Liverpool’s top targets, though he is also wanted by Arsenal. The world class German forward can play in a variety of attacking roles and would arguably be a better player for the Reds than Sterling, especially at more than half the teenager’s rumoured asking price.
4) Isco (Real Madrid)
Linked with Liverpool in recent times, Real Madrid starlet Isco is another promising young attacker who could make a good signing for the Reds if Sterling does leave for Stamford Bridge, with the Spaniard having previously been regarded as one of the best up-and-coming talents in world football.
3) Nicolas Gaitan (Benfica)
Having been linked with Liverpool in the summer, it may be that the Reds will revive their interest in Argentine winger Nicolas Gaitan of Benfica. The skillful wide-man has been a top performer in the Portuguese top flight and could now be ready to challenge himself in a more competitive league.
2) Marek Hamsik (Napoli)
A top class playmaker recently linked with Liverpool, Napoli star Marek Hamsik may be on his way out of his current club in January, with the Reds said to be ready to pounce for his signature if he does become available. The 27-year-old is a quality attacker with an eye for goal and plenty of experience at the top level.
1) Pedro (Barcelona)
Finally, Liverpool have also been linked with a bid for superb Barcelona winger Pedro Rodriguez, who looks to be out of favour at the Nou Camp this season and struggling to find his best form. The Spaniard has been a major part of the club’s recent success but could now look to move on for a new challenge in England, with Arsenal also said to be interested.