Ex-Liverpool fullback Glen Johnson believes Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling would favour a return to Anfield ahead of a move to Barcelona.

Sterling’s former teammate claims that, if it became a straight battle between the Reds and Barca, the 26-year-old is likely to make the switch back to Anfield:

“If it’s genuinely between Liverpool and Barcelona, then it’s no competition considering where both clubs are at the moment. Liverpool could certainly do with a player like Raheem but he would probably struggle initially to get into their starting eleven as both Salah and Mane are on flames at the moment. However, they can’t play 60 games a season each either. There would certainly be an opportunity for Raheem to fight for a space at Liverpool. He’s still a world-class player and I’m sure Liverpool would like the chance to re-sign him.”

Whether Liverpool are actually interested in Sterling, it is up for debate. The 72 Cap England international is reportedly unsettled at City and a transfer in January is not out of the question.

However, it would be a surprise if the Citizens allowed the player to move to a direct rival. They would probably be more open to him leaving for a team abroad or, perhaps, a side lower in the table, such as Arsenal.

Liverpool will probably be in the market for a forward in the New Year, considering that both Mo Salah and Sadio Mane will be missing for the African Cup of Nations, but the club will likely look at more realistic options than Sterling.