Gianluca Di Marzio has rubbished reports linking Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling with a shock return to Liverpool.

Reports in the German media last week suggested that the 26-year-old could be a target for the Reds but Di Marzio, a well-respected journalist when it comes to transfer rumours, says there is no possibility of it happening:

“I do not believe that. Liverpool want young players who can become stars. They are only working towards the summer market because they have to make different offers. In this position, they have Salah and Mane and have to strengthen themselves in other positions.”

Di Marzio also assessed claims that Barcelona could be interested in Sterling but the Italian reporter suggests any move to Camp Nou is dependent on the Catalan club’s finances.

He also said that City manager Pep Guardiola wanted the England international to leave in the summer after a breakdown in his personal relationship with the player. It is even thought that the Spaniard approved an approach for Cristiano Ronaldo on the proviso that Sterling would leave.

When the winger ended up staying at the Etihad, the Citizens’ backed away from signing Ronaldo, allowing him to join Manchester United instead.