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Rodgers says Reds have money amid Coutinho talk

Brendan Rodgers has been linked to Philippe Coutinho © Getty Images

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Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed he wants to bring in experienced players and insists money is available for the right targets.

Rodgers has already made a significant signing this month, with Daniel Sturridge arriving from Chelsea in a £12 million deal, and the Reds boss has backed the 23-year-old to dispel any doubts once he is settled at Anfield.

The Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph and Guardian all reported on Saturday morning that Liverpool want Inter Milan midfielder Philippe Coutinho, 20, and made an £8 million bid, which has apparently been rebuffed. But Rodgers has said he would like to bring in some older stars to help the rest of the squad as they look to break into the top four.

"I will always do in my role what I think is best for the team and club," he said. "That is all I can do. It's not my money and not my club. I'm here to manage the group and, hopefully, we will get the players in to take us forward.

"I have got no complaints with the owners. They allow me to work and work well. If you ask any manager, they will always look for a young player that they can develop, but there are certain times when you need that experience.

"Look at [Robin] Van Persie as the example. If you bring him in at 29, there is absolutely no question that he reinvigorates Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Paul Scholes. He also gives the young players something too.

"If we bring in an experienced player of the right quality, there would be no question of Steven Gerrard getting a boost from it; Luis Suarez, Daniel Agger and the young players would feed off it. That is the importance. If you are going to be up there fighting for titles, you need the right blend."

He added: "We have got money that can be reinvested back into the team. We are just looking for the right players who fit the profile we want. It is going to take time, but I will certainly always say what I feel is right for the team."

Liverpool have been persistently linked with a move for 28-year-old Inter midfielder Wesley Sneijder, who continues to stall over a move to Galatasaray, but Rodgers said he "couldn't see that happening" when asked in midweek.

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