Raheem Sterling misses Liverpool's training citing illness

Raheem Sterling missed Liverpool’s training on Wednesday claiming illness

Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling failed to report for training at Liverpool’s Melwood complex on Wednesday morning due to illness, according to The Guardian. Liverpool haven’t made any comment yet regarding Sterling’s absence and are set to verify the claim by asking its medical.

The 2014 Golden Boy had told Liverpool earlier that he wants to miss the club’s pre-season tour in order to force a move to Manchester City, as per The Guardian. The Reds are due to travel to Thailand, Australia and Malaysia as part of their two-week pre-season tour.

Manchester City had made two attempts to sign the England international this summer – a £30-million bid and a subsequent £40-million bid – both of which were rejected by Liverpool. City will have to make a large offer for the youngster as Liverpool value the player at over £50 million while also maintaining that the player is not up for sale.

Sterling, who has two years remaining in his contract, had rejected a £100,000-a-week contract extension last season. Brendan Rodgers, although, remains confident that the player will show up for the pre-season friendlies. The Liverpool boss had faced a similar situation in 2013 when Luis Suarez travelled with the Liverpool squad on their pre-season tour of Australia despite trying to force a move to Arsenal.

Liverpool are, however, not taking any chances with Sterling and have identified Barcelona’s Pedro Rodriguez as a potential replacement. The Spanish forward had limited chances in the first team under Luis Enrique last season and despite renewing his contract with the Catalans last month, he is unsure of what the future holds for him, according to Marca.

The Reds also view Real Madrid’s Denis Cheryshev as another alternative to Sterling and were linked with the 24-year-old recently, according to Metro. The Russian winger is yet to make an appearance for Los Blancos’ senior squad after spending the last two seasons on loan at Sevilla and Villareal.

Liverpool target Christain Benteke wants to leave Aston Villa

Liverpool have been linked with the signing of Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke and have received a boost in the pursuit of the 24-year-old, as the Belgian is set to have talks with Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood with the intention of leaving the club.

Like Sterling, Benteke has two years remaining in his contract and Aston Villa are said to be demanding £32.5million from any potential suitors for their star striker.