Former Liverpool star John Barnes insists contract rebel Raheem Sterling is NOT ready for a big-money move away from Merseyside.

The Red youngster has been linked with a move to Real Madrid or Manchester City this summer, after talkSPORT told you the 20-year-old would reject a deal at Anfield.

Sterling, who has another two years left to run on his current contract, is believed to be holding out for a £150,000-a-week offer from Brendan Rodgers’ side.

The Northern Irishman has already insisted the club will not be held to ransom and ex-winger Barnes insists the youngster should remain at Liverpool until he has proven himself worthy of a huge deal elsewhere.

“Raheem Sterling should absolutely sign the contract and stay at Liverpool,” he told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show.

“I would advise any young player who has just been in the game for a year or so to stay and learn his trade. Show a level of consistently over a four or five year period before you make a big move. You will then be judged as a £50m player.

“We’ve seen it with Scott Sinclair and Jack Rodwell at Manchester City. Where are they now?

“Sterling is not ready for a move to Barcelona, Real Madrid or Manchester City. He needs another two or three years at Liverpool. Then, if he decides he wants to move on, fine. He has to be very careful though.

“Sometimes the bad advice is not only the most lucrative but also sounds like the best advice.

“He’s not been playing consistently well over a number of years though. Maybe his form has suffered because of all the speculation about his future.

“For any young player, similar to Harry Kane [and Sterling], I would advise you to show a level of consistently where you’re happy and people accept you.

“Then, if you want to put yourself under pressure by making a big money move, do that because it could all go wrong.”