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Liverpool have decided not to pursue a deal for Sevilla striker Carlos Bacca.

The Reds had registered their interest in the Colombian frontman and were considering whether to trigger his 30million euros (£21.3million) release clause.

However, with Bacca keen to get his future resolved, Anfield officials have opted against meeting the asking price and have left the way clear for AC Milan to sign him.

Bacca’s scoring record in Spain was impressive – with 49 goals in the past two seasons – but Liverpool had concerns over the size of the fee for a striker who turns 29 in September.

“I can confirm that Milan and the player have reached an agreement,” said Bacca’s agent Sergio Barila.

“Carlos has chosen the best for his future, it is normal to be happy.”

Benteke remains top of Anfield wish list

Having successfully wrapped up deals for Hoffenheim attacker Roberto Firmino and Southampton full-back Nathaniel Clyne last week, the Reds are prepared to bide their time as Brendan Rodgers looks to add another top class marksman to his ranks.

Aston Villa’s Christian Benteke remains their No 1 target but Liverpool aren’t willing to pay the £32.5million asking price.

The Reds retain hope that a compromise can be reached for the big Belgium international, who has two years remaining on his current contract and has made it clear he won’t pen a new deal with the Midlands outfit.

Villa’s refusal to budge over the fee led to Liverpool exploring other striking options. Bacca is no longer on that shortlist but Zenit St Petersburg’s Salomon Rondon remains a possibility if it becomes clear that the Reds can’t land Benteke at the right price.

Meanwhile, Liverpool will speak to Roberto Firmino, Philippe Coutinho and Emre Can before deciding whether they will have any involvement in the club’s pre-season tour of the Far East and Australia.

All three players’ international commitments came to a surprise end over the weekend with Brazil knocked out of the Copa America in the quarter-finals by Paraguay and Germany Under-21s thrashed 5-0 by Portugal in the semi-finals of the European Championships.

If Brazil had reached the final, Firmino and Coutinho would have missed the entire tour. However, their early exit means they could still have a part to play. Like Can, they will now start a three-week break and that means they would return for pre-season around July 19.

By then Liverpool will be in Australia having already played in Bangkok and Brisbane. The final two tour matches are in Adelaide (July 20) and Kuala Lumpur (July 24).

Rodgers must decide whether to fly them around the world for such a limited period or allow them to train at Melwood prior to the squad’s return to the UK.

Tiago Ilori is now the only remaining Liverpool player on international duty. Portugal Under-21s face Sweden in Tuesday’s final.