You'll have plenty to celebrate when you subscribe to the Liverpool FC newsletter Sign me up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Liverpool FC managing director Ian Ayre has returned to the UK following talks with Luis Suarez's agent about the striker's future.

Ayre flew to Barcelona yesterday to meet Per Guardiola and underline the club's desire to get the prolific Uruguayan tied down to a new long-term contract.

Suarez's current deal runs until the summer of 2016 but Fenway Sports Group (FSG) are keen to ensure Liverpool do everything possible to keep hold of their prized asset.

The Reds owners want to reward the stunning form which has seen Suarez, who has netted 17 Premier League goals in just 11 games this season, establish himself as one of the best players on the planet.

FSG, who rejected a bid of £40million plus £1 from Arsenal last summer, are also determined to scare off potential suitors.

There is no chance of Suarez going anywhere during the January window but Liverpool know there are bound to be lucrative offers on the table next summer.

The Reds are prepared to significantly improve on his current wages of around £100,000 per week to make him the club's highest paid player, but the terms of any possible new contract have yet to be discussed.

The ECHO understands talks between Suarez's agent and the club are at an early stage but relations are cordial.

That in itself represents progress considering the fall-out back in August after Suarez and Guardiola wrongly believed a clause in the player's contract meant he could leave if any club offered more than £40million.

Since then Suarez has knuckled down and produced the form of his life. He was rewarded by boss Brendan Rodgers with the captaincy against Tottenham last weekend .

The fact that Suarez has said he's happy and settled has given Liverpool encouragement.

However, they are also aware that he may decide to wait until May to make a decision on any new contract when it will be clear whether the Reds have achieved their target of Champions League qualification.