1 Real Madrid star Asier Illarramendi

Liverpool have launched a £16million bid for Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi, according to Spanish newspaper Marca.

The Spain Under-23 star has struggled to settle at the Bernabeu, following his 2013 move from Real Sociedad.

And Marca claims former Anfield Rafa Benitez will have the final say on any transfer.

It’s reported the Reds have already seen an £11m offer rejected, but Brendan Rodgers will return with an improved bid.

Should Illarramendi make a move to the Merseysiders, he would become the Premier League club’s fifth signing of the summer.