Liverpool have received a boost in their pursuit of Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi after new boss Rafa Benitez told him he’s no longer needed at the club.
The 25-year-old has failed to win a place in the starting XI at the Bernabeu since a £22m switch from Real Sociedad in 2013.
Brendan Rodgers is a fan of the ex-Spain Under-23 international and has been heavily linked with a swoop for the player.
And now the La Liga giants have given him the green light to depart, the Reds are now expected to make a concrete offer of around £15m.
Illarramendi’s arrival would also spell the end for Lucas Leiva depart Anfield.