Daily Mail: Rodgers plots move for Sturridge

Liverpool have contacted Chelsea about Daniel Sturridge's availability as they aim to make an immediate mark in the January window.

The England forward came close to moving to Anfield in the summer but manager Brendan Rodgers only wanted to do a loan deal then, while Sturridge wanted a permanent transfer.

But Sturridge may now get his wish in the new year, as Liverpool have spoken with Chelsea about resurrecting the move.

The club are desperately short of striking options; Fabio Borini faces another two months out with injury, while Andy Carroll will not be recalled from his loan at West Ham.

Arsenal's Theo Walcott is a top target but Sturridge, 23, is an acceptable alternative. Liverpool have also been watching Blackpool winger Tom Ince, who was once on the playing staff at Anfield.

Chairman Tom Werner said after Saturday's 3-0 victory over Wigan it was Liverpool's 'intention to strengthen' in the forthcoming window.

Rodgers could welcome back midfielder Lucas Leiva - out for three months with a ruptured thigh - into his squad on Thursday night for the Europa League game against Young Boys Berne.

Source: Daily Mail